Choking occurs when something blocks the airway, preventing air from reaching the lungs. This can happen when a piece of food or any other object enters the trachea (windpipe) instead of the esophagus (food pipe).

In the case of a minor obstruction, coughing can help to remove the object. However, when the object completely blocks the airway, the person will be unable to breathe, talk, or cough effectively. Without intervention, choking can quickly lead to unconsciousness and suffocation.M

There are a number of potential causes of choking, including eating too quickly, consuming poorly chewed food, or even swallowing objects that are not food-related. In some cases, fluids like blood or vomit can obstruct the airway, leading to choking.