Mayo Clinic Care Network Content
Definitions

Asphyxia


Self-care

If someone is choking on an object, alternate between five back blows between the shoulder blades and five abdominal thrusts until the object is dislodged.

When to seek immediate medical care

Seek emergency help if:

  • Unable to talk or cough forcefully
  • Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing
  • Skin, lips, and nails turn blue or dusky
  • Loss of consciousness