Children’s health: Simple steps to prevent kids from choking
For many parents, the thought of their child choking is a quiet but constant fear. It can happen in an instant, often when a child is eating or exploring their surroundings. Pediatricians say that infants and toddlers are especially vulnerable because they are still learning how to chew and swallow safely.
“Choking is a common cause of injury in young children, especially as they develop new eating and motor skills,” said Dr. Tara Kotagal, a pediatrician with Lurie Children’s Primary Care Town & Country Pediatrics. “The good news is that many choking incidents can be prevented with careful supervision and a few simple precautions.”
According to Dr. Kotagal, both food and small household objects are leading causes of choking in young children. Round or hard foods, like uncut grapes, cherry tomatoes, hot dogs, and chunks of raw fruits or vegetables, are among the most dangerous. Popcorn, nuts, dried fruits and hard candies are also common culprits.
“Parents should be cautious with foods that are round, hard, or difficult to chew,” Dr. Kotagal said. “Cutting grapes and tomatoes into quarters and shredding or cooking hard foods makes them much safer for little ones.”
But food isn’t the only risk. As toddlers explore, many put objects in their mouths that don’t belong there. “Items like buttons, coins, batteries, marbles, and small toy parts can be very dangerous if swallowed,” Dr. Kotagal said. “Even balloons can pose a serious risk if pieces are inhaled.”
Experts recommend parents take a proactive approach by creating a safe environment at home. Keeping small items out of reach, following age guidelines on toys, and regularly checking the floor and play areas for loose objects can help prevent accidents.
“Parents can help by making mealtime calm and structured,” Dr. Kotagal said. “Encourage kids to sit while eating and take small bites. Avoid letting them walk or play with food in their mouths.”
She also suggests getting down on the floor to see the world from a toddler’s eye level. “You’d be surprised what you find under furniture or in corners,” she added. “It’s a great way to spot hazards you might miss from above.”
Recognizing the signs of choking early is key. In infants, signs can be subtle, such as suddenly becoming quiet, making high-pitched noises, or showing bluish or gray discoloration around the mouth. In toddlers and older children, the signs are often more visible: gagging, coughing, wheezing or clutching at the throat.
“If a child cannot breathe, cry or make a sound, parents should act immediately,” Dr. Kotagal said.
For infants under one year old, parents can follow infant choking rescue steps by delivering five firm back blows followed by five chest thrusts. For older children, the Heimlich maneuver, or abdominal thrusts, should be used until the object is expelled. If the child becomes unresponsive, CPR should be started right away and 911 should be called.
“Even if the object comes out and your child seems fine, it’s important to have them checked by a doctor,” Dr. Kotagal said. “Sometimes small pieces can remain in the airway or cause irritation afterward.”
Dr. Kotagal encourages all parents and caregivers to take an infant and child CPR class to be better prepared. “Knowing what to do in those first moments can truly save a life,” she said. “Education is one of the best ways to protect your child.”
While choking is a frightening possibility, Dr. Kotagal says parents shouldn’t live in fear.
“With awareness and preparation, most choking incidents can be avoided,” she said. “By cutting foods safely, supervising mealtime and childproofing your home, you can help your child eat and explore safely.”
For more child safety information, visit luriechildrens.org.
• Children's health is a continuing series. This column was provided by Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago.