Choking deaths
Choking deaths refer to a medical emergency caused by the obstruction of the airway, which can lead to a lack of oxygen necessary for survival. This condition often arises unexpectedly and is typically accidental, with many choking incidents involving food in adults, particularly under the influence of alcohol, while children may choke on small objects or large quantities of food that they haven't chewed sufficiently. Recognizing the signs of choking is crucial, as prompt action can prevent fatalities, and victims may display specific gestures or symptoms, such as an inability to speak or cough when completely blocked.
In cases of choking, if a person can cough or speak, they are still able to breathe and only need assistance in monitoring the situation. However, complete airway obstruction can lead to severe consequences, including loss of consciousness and ultimately death if not resolved quickly. Emergency responders must be trained to identify the signs of choking, as these incidents can be misinterpreted as other causes of death, such as suffocation or strangulation. The significance of understanding choking deaths is underscored by alarming statistics; for instance, in the U.S., 5,554 individuals died from choking in 2022, highlighting the importance of awareness and prevention strategies.
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Choking deaths
DEFINITION: Medical emergency that occurs when partial or complete obstruction of the airway interferes with breathing, depriving the body of the oxygen necessary to maintain life.
SIGNIFICANCE: Appropriate actions may be taken to prevent death in choking victims if others present recognize the signs of choking. Choking deaths may be mistaken for other types of deaths, such as suffocation, strangulation, or asphyxia, which may be intentional or accidental.
Choking is almost always accidental and preventable. The signs of active choking vary depending on the age of the person and the type of choking (partial or complete) involved. In adults, choking on food is most commonly found in situations of alcohol intoxication. Children often choke as the result of putting small objects, such as coins or small toys, into their mouths and then unintentionally inhaling them into the trachea (airway). Children also sometimes choke because they have put large amounts of food into their mouths and have not chewed the food properly before swallowing; the objects enter the airway rather than the esophagus.
A choking victim who is able to cough or speak is receiving adequate oxygenation to sustain life; the only action needed in such a situation is observation. The person should be allowed to cough in an attempt to dislodge the object. A partial airway blockage, however, may progress to a complete blockage. When the airway is completely blocked, the victim is not taking in adequate oxygen and is unable to speak or cough. A blue discoloration of the mouth and fingernails may become apparent.
A person who is choking may panic because of the lack of oxygen and fear of death. An adult may avoid seeking help in public owing to embarrassment, whereas a child may run from help out of fear. If the blockage is not quickly resolved, the individual will lose consciousness because of the lack of oxygen to the brain. At that point, the muscles in the airway will relax, but the object will remain in the airway unless the victim receives assistance from another person. If choking continues, the victim’s heart will eventually stop beating and death will occur.
Medical and personnel need to be aware of the signs of choking that may be present at the scene of a death. By thoroughly examining the scene and interviewing witnesses, emergency responders and police officers may aid the in determination of the cause and manner of death. Bruising of the neck should not be seen in a choking victim. A person who has died from choking may have scratch marks at the neck from grabbing at the throat; if any skin is found under the fingernails, it will be the victim’s own. The eyes of a choking victim may be bloodshot from vigorous coughing or from straining to relieve the blockage. As death occurs, the muscles relax. The bladder also relaxes, and urine may be present at the scene. According to the online statistical website Statista, 5,554 people died in the United States in 2022 from choking.
Bibliography
American Red Cross. American Red Cross First Aid: Responding to Emergencies. 5th ed. Yardley, Pa.: StayWell, 2006.
Elflein, John. "Number of Deaths Due to Choking in the United States From 1945 to 2022." Statista, 16 Apr. 2024, www.statista.com/statistics/527321/deaths-due-to-choking-in-the-us/. Accessed 14 Aug. 2024.
Lynch, Virginia A. Forensic Nursing. St. Louis: C. V. Mosby, 2006.