What to Do After a Choking Accident 

A choking accident can happen to anyone at any time. Regardless of whether you work in a role that requires you to understand how to recognize and respond to a choking incident, you should have a basic understanding of how to act in such circumstances. But having this understanding can be greatly beneficial if you or a loved one end up choking.

If you want to know more about what to do after a choking accident has happened to continue to read on.

Signs of Choking 

It is important to know the signs of choking, so action can be taken quickly. The universal sign that indicates that this is happening is when a person is clutching at their throat. Choking is described as occurring when a person’s airway suddenly becomes fully or partially blocked, rendering them unable to breathe.

Here are some of the common signs that a person is choking: 

• Coughing or gagging
• Watery eyes
• An inability to talk properly right a normal volume
• Having a red puffy face
• Wheezing or abnormal breathing sounds
• Signs of distress such as throat clutching her panicked hand gestures
• Blue coloring to their lips or skin
• Passing out

Choking After Effects 

If someone has suffered a choking accident, it is generally advisable to get them checked out by a doctor following the event, as there are certain complications that can arise as a consequence. It is useful to be aware of some of the aftereffects that can occur after such an accident happens.

Here are some of the aftereffects following a choking incident: 

• Damage to the delicate lining of the airways due to the object that caused the obstruction. This could mean that swelling could occur over time.
• Aspiration pneumonia is an inflammation or infection of the lungs caused by food or liquid being inhaled into the lungs.
• Psychological effects can happen and the person who was choking or the responder may be left with some anxieties and post-traumatic stress following the event.
• The physical impact of back blows, abdominal thrusts, or CPR can lead to bruising or injury to the ribs.

Just like any other injury, you will want to be seen by a medical professional to ensure that you won’t suffer any long-term consequences. If you’re experiencing psychological distress, then you should consider talking to a mental health professional who can help you through the emotional process.

We understand that choking is a scary time for anyone, and we want you to know what to do after an accident happens. After the accident has passed consider talking to a qualified choking lawyer like the ones at Davis & Brusca, LLC, for more information about what they can do to help you and your family in this difficult time.