Foreign body stuck in the airway is medically known as airway foreign body obstruction, common in infants and the elderly, if not handled in time, can lead to asphyxiation or even death. This issue of the old Lee will teach you to learn the airway foreign body obstruction of mutual aid and self-help. Understanding the airway The airway, also known as the inspiratory tract, consists of the nose, mouth, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchus, is a channel for air (oxygen) into the body and exhaust gas (carbon dioxide) out. What is foreign body obstruction? Foreign body obstruction of the airway is most commonly seen in infants, children and the elderly. Choking in infants and children occurs most often during eating, such as when consuming large granular foods such as unchewed food, peanut rice, beans, jelly, or when putting coins, kernels, or toys into the mouth to play with. It occurs in adults when trying to swallow large pieces of difficult-to-chew food, after drinking alcohol (elevated blood alcohol concentration), and is especially likely to occur in older adults with dentures and swallowing difficulties. Symptoms of airway foreign body obstruction When airway foreign body obstruction occurs, there is usually a sudden violent choking, reflex vomiting, hoarseness, difficulty in inspiration, cyanosis, and often involuntary pressing of one hand in a “V” shape against the anterior cervical larynx. Due to the obstruction of ventilation, the face will also appear blue. If the treatment is not timely, there can be neurological damage to the brain, and even lead to death. Emergency treatment Once a foreign body obstruction occurs, the following measures should be taken immediately: 1. immediately call the “120 emergency number” 2. use the “Heimlich method” to start resuscitation as soon as possible. Prevention of airway foreign body obstruction The following points should be noted: ① Cut food into fine pieces ② Chew well ③ Avoid laughing, talking, walking or running when there is food in the mouth ④ Watch the child well and do not let the child put small toys into the mouth Extra attention should be paid when eating in the following cases: ① Those who have dentures ② Those who eat after drinking alcohol.