When food or liquid “goes down the wrong way” and enters the airway or lungs, it’s called aspiration. This guide explains what to do if you or someone else aspirates food or liquid.
Understanding Aspiration
Normally, food and liquid travel down the esophagus to the stomach. Aspiration occurs when these substances enter the trachea (windpipe) and potentially the lungs. This is more common in young children and older adults. Coughing is the body’s natural defense mechanism to expel aspirated material.
What to Do When Food Enters the Lungs
Mild Aspiration: If the person is coughing forcefully and able to breathe, encourage them to continue coughing. This is often enough to clear the airway. Don’t pat them on the back as this could lodge the food further.
Severe Aspiration: If coughing is weak, breathing is difficult, or the person is turning blue (cyanosis), this is a medical emergency.
- Call 911 immediately.
- Perform the Heimlich Maneuver (for adults and children over 1 year old):
- Stand behind the person.
- Wrap your arms around their waist.
- Make a fist with one hand and place the thumb side just above their navel.
- Grasp your fist with your other hand and thrust inward and upward with quick, forceful movements.
- Back Blows and Chest Thrusts (for infants under 1 year old):
- Place the infant face down on your forearm, supporting their head and chin.
- Deliver five firm back blows between the shoulder blades.
- Turn the infant face up and deliver five chest thrusts, similar to CPR but using only two fingers.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Even if the aspirated food is dislodged, seek medical attention if:
- Breathing difficulties persist.
- There’s a persistent cough or wheezing.
- The person experiences chest pain.
- There are signs of infection, such as fever or chills. Aspiration pneumonia is a serious complication.
Preventing Aspiration
Certain factors increase the risk of aspiration. Taking precautions can help prevent it:
- Eat slowly and chew food thoroughly.
- Avoid talking or laughing while eating.
- Sit upright while eating and for a period afterward.
- For those with swallowing difficulties, consider dietary modifications like pureed foods or thickened liquids. Consult with a speech therapist or healthcare professional.
Long-Term Concerns
Aspiration can lead to serious complications, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions. Repeated aspiration may indicate a swallowing disorder requiring professional evaluation.
This information is for general knowledge and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for any medical concerns. If you suspect someone is choking or has aspirated food, seek immediate medical assistance.
