What is what to do when you choke on water?
If you're choking on water, the first and most important thing is to try to cough forcefully. This is the body's natural reaction and often the most effective way to dislodge the water.
If coughing doesn't work and you're alone:
- Call for Help (Even if Muffled): Try to get someone's attention by calling out, even if you can't speak clearly.
- Perform the Heimlich Maneuver on Yourself: This involves using a firm object (like a chair or countertop) to create abdominal thrusts.
- Place a fist slightly above your navel and below your rib cage.
- Grasp your fist with your other hand.
- Press your fist into your abdomen with a quick, upward thrust.
- Repeat until the water is dislodged.
- Consider bending over a firm surface: Similar to the Heimlich, bend over the back of a chair, railing, or other sturdy object and sharply thrust your abdomen against the edge.
If someone else is present:
- Encourage Coughing: Urge the person to cough forcefully.
- Assess Their Condition: Look for signs of distress, such as turning blue (cyanosis) or being unable to breathe or speak.
- Administer the Heimlich Maneuver:
- Stand behind the person and wrap your arms around their waist.
- Make a fist with one hand and place the thumb side slightly above their navel and below their rib cage.
- Grasp your fist with your other hand.
- Give quick, upward thrusts into their abdomen.
- Continue until the water is dislodged or the person becomes unconscious.
- Call Emergency Services: If the person becomes unconscious, immediately call emergency services (like 911) and begin CPR if you are trained.
Important Considerations:
- Stay Calm: Panicking can make the situation worse.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you successfully dislodge the water, it's a good idea to seek medical attention afterward to ensure that no water has entered the lungs. This is especially important if coughing persists or you experience shortness of breath.
- Prevention: Take small sips of water, avoid talking while drinking, and be mindful of your swallowing if you have difficulty.
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