With the Spring Festival approaching and increased gatherings, extra caution is needed during meals and conversations, particularly for the elderly and children, who are highly susceptible to airway obstruction from foreign objects.
According to the official website of Beijing 120 Emergency Center, they recently provided emergency care to an elderly patient who experienced sudden severe coughing and choking while taking medication, resulting in a critical situation.The center advises that elderly individuals often experience diminished swallowing and cough reflexes, making it easier for food or medication to enter the trachea. When eating or taking medicine, avoid talking, moving around, or engaging in other activities simultaneously. Always proceed slowly.
The center also advises that seniors should avoid sticky or hard-to-digest foods. Those wearing dentures should constantly monitor for any loosening.
Additionally, family members should be proficient in performing the Heimlich maneuver (abdominal thrusts) to quickly resolve airway obstruction and save lives. Alternatively, immediately dial 120 for emergency medical services. Dispatchers can assist in dispatching an ambulance and provide telephone guidance.