Introduction

• “What  will you do if a child suddenly cannot breathe?”
• Do you know the difference between choking and gagging? One is normal, the other can be life-threatening. Today, I’ll show you simple first aid steps that may save a child’s life.”

Difference Between Gagging & Choking

What is Gagging? (Usually Less Dangerous) : A gag reflex is the body’s

Way of protecting the airway.

Signs of Gagging:

• Child is coughing 
• Making sounds or crying 
•  Face may look red 
• Still breathing 

What to do:

• Stay calm 
• Encourage coughing 
• Watch closely 
• Do not put fingers in the mouth 

What is Choking ?(Emergency) : Silent, cannot cry, blue lips, struggling to breathe

Signs of Dangerous Choking

• Cannot speak or cry  
• Blue lips/face  
• Hands on throat  
• No breathing  

What To Do Immediately

• Call for help/emergency services  
• Give back blows (for infants)  
• Abdominal thrusts/Heimlich (for older children)  
• CPR if unconscious  

What NOT To Do

• Don’t put fingers blindly in mouth  
• Don’t shake the child  
• Don’t delay calling help 

Prevention Tips

• Avoid small toys, nuts, grapes, coins  
• Supervise eating  

Important  Safety Note

• If a child is unable to breathe, turning blue, or unresponsive, seek emergency medical help immediately and use age-appropriate first aid if trained. 

Dr. Anjum Akbar Mujawar

MBBS, MEM, FEM, PEM, CCEBDM

Consultant-Emergency Medicine