When should you perform the Heimlich maneuver?

When should you perform the Heimlich maneuver?

The Heimlich maneuver is a procedure used to help a choking person who is conscious and unable to talk. The Heimlich maneuver pushes air out of the person's lungs and makes him cough. The force of the cough may then move the object out of his airway.

Can you perform the Heimlich maneuver on yourself?

To perform abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver) on yourself: First, if you're alone and choking, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. Then, although you'll be unable to effectively deliver back blows to yourself, you can still perform abdominal thrusts to dislodge the item.

What do you do after Heimlich maneuver?

Once you've dislodged the object, you will feel your breathing hugely improved, but your airway may begin to swell over time from the damage left behind. Doctors can monitor your breathing, provide medications to help reduce inflammation and administer oxygen if necessary as you recover.

How effective is the Heimlich maneuver?

You don't need to be a medical professional—and it takes just minutes to learn how. It also has an extremely high success rate, among children and adults alike; according to an AHA report, approximately 70-86% of choking victims recovered after receiving the Heimlich maneuver.