If you or your child inhales a foreign object, see your doctor. If the inhaled object causes choking:
- Use the Heimlich maneuver to try to remove the object.
- Dial 911 or your local emergency number.
To perform the Heimlich maneuver on someone else:
- Stand behind the person. Wrap your arms around the waist. Tip the person forward slightly.
- Make a fist with one hand. Position it slightly above the person's navel.
- Grasp the fist with the other hand. Press hard into the abdomen with a quick, upward thrust — as if trying to lift the person up.
- Repeat until the blockage is dislodged.
To perform the Heimlich maneuver on yourself:
- Place a fist slightly above your navel.
- Grasp your fist with the other hand and bend over a hard surface — a countertop or chair will do.
- Shove your fist inward and upward.
Last Updated: 01/16/2006