Choking is the physiological response to sudden obstruction of airways. Foreign body airway obstruction (FBAO) causes asphyxia and is a terrifying condition, occurring very acutely, with the patient often unable to explain what is happening to them. If severe, it can result in rapid loss of consciousness and death if first aid is not undertaken quickly and successfully. Immediate recognition and response are of the utmost importance.
This is a companion discussion topic for the original article at https://patient.info/doctor/choking-and-foreign-body-airway-obstruction-fbao