Health Topics for Prepare for Emergencies

Department of Emergency Medicine

Emergency Medical Services Learning Resources Center

Choking in children

Inhaling or swallowing a foreign object usually causes choking in infants and children over one year of age. The symptoms are an inability to breathe or cry, high-pitched noises, ineffective coughs, and the face begins to turn blue.

Prevention: The highest risk age of children for choking to death is 3 years of age or younger. Children in this age group have a natural tendency to explore things with their mouths. To reduce the risk of choking accidents, make sure babies and young children do not come into contact with coins, buttons, small candies, watch batteries, popcorn, grapes, nuts, or seeds. Cut foods like hot dogs, fruits, and vegetables into small bite size pieces. Balloons, toys, toy parts, and peanuts can also cause choking.

If a child or an adult is choking, immediate emergency action is needed. Call 911 or the emergency medical system in your area.

It is important to learn basic life support techniques for choking and other medical emergencies.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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