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What is airway obstruction and how is it treated in first aid situations?

Airway obstruction is a medical emergency that occurs when the airway becomes blocked, preventing air from reaching the lungs. It may be partial, where some air passes through, or complete, where no air can get through. Causes include choking on food or objects, swelling from allergic reactions, trauma, or inhalation of vomit or fluids.

In a conscious person with a partial obstruction, you may notice coughing, gagging, or noisy breathing. Encourage them to keep coughing to try to clear the blockage. However, if the obstruction becomes complete, they may be unable to speak, breathe, or cough, and may quickly lose consciousness.

For a conscious adult or child with complete airway obstruction, give up to five firm back blows between the shoulder blades, followed by up to five chest thrusts if the blockage persists. These actions can help dislodge the object. For infants under 1 year, use a combination of back blows and chest thrusts suited to their smaller size and fragility.

If the person becomes unresponsive, begin CPR immediately, starting with chest compressions, and call 000. Do not attempt to retrieve an object from the throat unless it is clearly visible and can be safely removed.

Airway obstruction can become fatal within minutes without prompt first aid. Recognising the signs and responding quickly can save a life.

See Choking for more information.

Airway obstruction blocks normal breathing and may be caused by food, vomit, or swelling. It requires urgent first aid.

Symptoms

  • Coughing or gagging

  • Noisy breathing or wheezing

  • Inability to speak or breathe

  • Bluish lips or skin (cyanosis)

  • Loss of consciousness

First aid for airway obstruction:

  • Encourage coughing if the person can breathe or talk.

  • If they cannot cough, speak, or breathe – give up to 5 back blows.

  • Follow with up to 5 chest thrusts if needed.

  • If unresponsive, begin CPR and call 000 immediately.

  • Continue until the airway is clear or help arrives.

Takeaway to Remember

Airway obstruction occurs when the airway is partially or fully blocked, preventing normal breathing. It can be caused by food, vomit, foreign objects, or swelling, and requires immediate first aid.