When my son was just two years old, he choked on a blackberry right before my eyes. I watched him gasp for air, his face filled with terror. It was a minute that felt like an eternity, and it left me with an enduring fear that one of my children could choke and not survive. The only way I can combat that fear is by educating myself about choking.
During that frightening moment when my son choked, I was paralyzed with fear. My partner quickly turned him over and delivered a few firm pats on his back, but that didn’t work. In a desperate attempt, he flipped our child back and used his finger to fish out the blackberry. Hearing my child cry again was a relief I will never forget.
Choking Injuries and Deaths
The ease with which choking can occur is alarming. According to the Department of Health, choking ranks as the fourth leading cause of unintentional death for children under five. I can’t express how thankful I am that our situation didn’t end tragically. Choking incidents are particularly dangerous for young children since their trachea is about the diameter of a drinking straw. Just imagine a blackberry lodged in that tiny space!
However, panicking won’t reduce choking risks. Instead, arming yourself with knowledge is the best defense.
Common Choking Hazards
Food is the leading cause of nonfatal choking in children, with over 12,000 kids ending up in emergency rooms each year due to food-related choking injuries. Common choking hazards include whole grapes, cherry tomatoes, and hotdogs. Additionally, snacks like popcorn, nuts, and various candies should be monitored closely.
Beyond just food items, consider the consistency, size, and shape of what your child is eating. Foods that clump, such as peanut butter, pose risks, as do sticky or dry foods. Round shapes or items that can fit into the trachea, like raw peas and cheese cubes, can easily block airways.
It’s also important to recognize that choking hazards aren’t limited to food. Toys and household items can pose risks as well. Young children often pick up small objects and put them in their mouths. While many parents are aware of small objects labeled as choking hazards, other items like latex balloons, bean bag stuffing, and holiday decorations can also be dangerous.
Other High-Risk Groups
It’s crucial to remember that choking isn’t just a concern for children. Caregivers for the elderly or those with conditions such as neurological disorders and muscular degeneration also face choking risks. Many of the same hazards apply to these populations.
Strategies for Prevention
This isn’t meant to induce fear; I’ve been there, and it’s an overwhelming experience. Instead, it’s about empowering you with the knowledge needed to avert choking incidents and prepare for emergencies. Arthur Lih, the founder of LifeVac, a device designed for choking emergencies, emphasizes a three-step approach: be aware, be trained, and be prepared.
Be Aware:
Awareness is critical in preventing choking. Recognize possible hazards, cut food into smaller pieces, model safe eating habits, and avoid rushing meals. Supervision is vital, especially for those at higher risk.
Be Trained:
If someone is choking, it’s essential to contact emergency services right away. Caregivers should be familiar with life-saving techniques like CPR and the Heimlich maneuver. The American Red Cross offers classes nationwide, which can be invaluable.
Be Prepared:
Unfortunately, the Heimlich maneuver and CPR don’t always succeed. It’s wise to have a de-choking device available in your home. Discuss options with your pediatrician to find the best product for your needs.
I hope you never have to face the potential of someone choking. My aim is to prevent you from experiencing the panic I felt. Use this information to become aware, seek training, and be ready for choking emergencies.
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Summary
Choking is a serious and common risk, especially for young children, but awareness and preparation can make a significant difference. Knowing the hazards, having the right training, and being prepared with proper techniques and devices can help prevent choking incidents.
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