How To Stop Choking On Phlegm?

What is Phlegm?

Phlegm is a type of mucus produced by the respiratory system, specifically the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. It is usually thick and sticky, serving to trap and eliminate particles such as dust, bacteria, and viruses from the airways. Phlegm is often produced in larger quantities when the body is fighting an infection, dealing with allergies, or responding to irritants and dry air, which can lead to the body producing more mucus. While it plays a crucial role in protecting the respiratory system, excessive or thick phlegm can sometimes lead to choking, especially if it obstructs the airway. Keeping mucus thin through hydration can help manage phlegm.

How Can Someone Choke on Excess Phlegm?

Choking on phlegm occurs when thick mucus accumulates in the throat or airways and blocks the flow of air. Conditions like congestive heart failure can also lead to increased mucus production. This can be particularly problematic for individuals with conditions like acid reflux, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), respiratory infections, or allergies, which can increase mucus production. Silent reflux can cause throat symptoms without the common symptom of heartburn, contributing to choking on phlegm. In some cases, the phlegm can become so thick that coughing alone is insufficient to clear it. If the phlegm is not expelled, it can obstruct the airway, leading to choking. Proper management of underlying conditions, staying hydrated, and knowing how to effectively clear the airway are essential to preventing choking on phlegm.

Steps to Stop Choking on Phlegm

1. Stay Calm

• Importance: Panic can worsen the situation by making it harder to breathe and think clearly.

• How to Stay Calm: Take deep breaths, focus on the steps you need to take, and remind yourself or the person that help is available.

2. Cough Gently

• Purpose: Coughing is the body’s natural way of clearing the airway.

• How to Cough Effectively: Take a deep breath, then cough forcefully from the diaphragm. Avoid shallow coughing as it may not be effective. Techniques like inhaling hot steam can help loosen phlegm, making it easier to cough up.

• Medications: Over-the-counter expectorants can help thin the mucus, making it easier to cough up.

3. Perform Back Blows

• Purpose: To dislodge phlegm blocking the airway.

• Steps:

  1. Stand behind the person and slightly to one side.

  2. Support their chest with one hand.

  3. Use the heel of your other hand to deliver five firm, upward blows between the shoulder blades.

  4. Ensure the blows are firm but not too forceful to avoid injury.

4. Perform Abdominal Thrusts (Heimlich Maneuver)

• Purpose: To apply pressure to the diaphragm, forcing air out of the lungs to expel the blockage.

• Steps:

  1. Stand behind the person.

  2. Place your arms around their waist.

  3. Make a fist with one hand and place it just above their navel.

  4. Grasp your fist with your other hand.

  5. Perform quick, upward thrusts, as if trying to lift the person.

  6. Repeat until the phlegm is dislodged or help arrives.

5. Alternate Between Back Blows and Abdominal Thrusts

• Purpose: To increase the chances of clearing the airway.

• How to Alternate:

  1. After five back blows, switch to five abdominal thrusts.

  2. Continue this cycle until the airway is clear or professional help arrives.

6. Seek Medical Attention if Necessary

• When to Seek Help:

  • If the person is unable to breathe.

  • If they become unconscious.

  • If the phlegm is not dislodged after several attempts.

• How to Seek Help: Call emergency services and continue performing first aid until they arrive.

Choking Prevention & Readiness

1. Learn the Heimlich Maneuver

• Why It's Important: Knowing how to perform this lifesaving technique can be crucial in emergencies.

• How to Learn: Attend a first aid course offered by local organizations or community centers.

Manage Underlying Conditions and Mucus Production

• Acid Reflux and GERD:

• Consult a doctor for appropriate treatment.

• Medications like proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers can reduce stomach acid production.

• Respiratory Infections:

• Follow medical advice and complete any prescribed antibiotics or antivirals.

• Ongoing sinus infections may require medical attention and possibly antibiotics.

• Sinus infections can lead to severe mucus buildup, complicating the condition further.

• Allergies:

• Use antihistamines or nasal sprays to manage symptoms.

• Minimize exposure to known allergens.

3. Stay Hydrated

• Importance: Proper hydration keeps mucus thin and easier to expel.

• Tips: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Warm beverages like tea can be soothing and help break up mucus.

4. Avoid Irritants

• Smoking: Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke.

• Pollution: Use air purifiers at home and wear masks in highly polluted areas.

5. Dietary Considerations

• Foods to Avoid: Fatty, spicy, and acidic foods can worsen acid reflux. Additionally, dietary factors such as meal size and timing can also influence acid reflux and phlegm production.

• Helpful Foods: Include ginger, turmeric, and honey in your diet for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Conclusion

Choking on phlegm can be a frightening experience, but understanding how to handle the situation can make a significant difference. Lifestyle factors such as smoking and exposure to pollutants can influence phlegm production. By staying calm, employing effective techniques such as coughing, back blows, and abdominal thrusts, and knowing when to seek medical attention, you can help ensure a positive outcome.

Preventative measures are equally important. Learning the Heimlich maneuver and other first aid techniques from local organizations can prepare you for emergencies. Managing underlying health conditions, staying hydrated, avoiding irritants, and making dietary adjustments can all help reduce the risk of phlegm buildup and choking.

Remember, while these steps can provide immediate assistance, they are not a substitute for professional medical care. Consulting a doctor for other medications can help manage mucus buildup and related conditions. Always consult with healthcare professionals for persistent or severe issues. Prioritizing safety, health, and readiness can help you effectively manage and prevent choking on phlegm.