What is a potential sign that a person is choking?

A potential sign that a person is choking is indicated by them placing one or both hands on their throat. This gesture is a common instinctive reaction to an airway obstruction, as individuals often use their hands to signal distress and indicate that they are unable to breathe properly. The act of clutching the throat is a universal sign of choking and suggests that the person is experiencing difficulty with airflow, prompting immediate attention and intervention.

In contrast, talking normally suggests that the airway is open, and the person is not choking. Similarly, if someone is coughing loudly and effectively, it typically means they are able to expel air from their lungs and potentially clear the obstruction on their own. Breathing comfortably is also indicative of an unobstructed airway, meaning that the person is not choking. Observing the behavior of placing hands on the throat is crucial in identifying a choking emergency that requires immediate assistance.