Exclamation PointPlease call 911 immediately if you are having chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, sudden weakness or numbness, or if you think you have a medical emergency.

Choking in Children

Call 911 if the child is:

Young children are prone to choking. If the child is coughing and gagging but can breathe and talk, don't do anything. But if he can't breathe, you must act quickly to stop a life-threatening situation.

While Waiting for 911

If the Child Is Unconscious:

1. Start CPR

For a Child Younger Than 1 Year Who Is Conscious but Not Breathing:

1. Get the Child Into Position

2. Give Forceful Blows

3. Turn the Child Over

4. Press the Chest

5. Start CPR, If Needed

For a Child Older Than 1 Year Who Is Conscious:

1. Get the Child Into Position

2. Try to Dislodge the Object

3. Start CPR, If Needed

WebMD Medical Reference

Reviewed by Renee A. Alli, MD, FAAP on September 01, 2011