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Emergency Care

Choking: How to Help an Adult

Steps every person should know.

Dr. Shalini Hegde
MBBS, MD Medicine
2 min read
Updated 11 Sep 2026
Medically reviewed by Ritika Sood, MSc Food and Nutrition

Encourage coughing

If the person can cough, encourage them to keep coughing.

Back blows and abdominal thrusts

If they cannot cough or breathe, give up to five firm back blows, then up to five abdominal thrusts, and repeat.

Call for help

Call 112 if the blockage does not clear. Consider a certified first aid course.

Trusted sources

  • World Health Organization (who.int)
  • Indian Council of Medical Research (icmr.gov.in)
  • Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India (mohfw.gov.in)
This content is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. If you are worried about your health, talk to a doctor or call 112 in an emergency.
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Not for emergencies. If you are in danger, call 112.