The Anatomy of Choking on Water

When we talk about choking on water, it doesn’t mean the person’s airway is completely blocked. Instead, it typically refers to water entering the windpipe, causing irritation and a reflexive cough.

The body’s natural reaction is to clear out any foreign substance from the airway, and that’s why we cough.

Is It Choking or Coughing

  1. Coughing: If someone is coughing after drinking water, it’s usually a sign that their body is trying to clear the water from their airway. In this case, they’re still able to breathe and talk. Encourage them to continue coughing until they feel better.
  2. Genuine Choking: If the person cannot breathe, talk, or is turning blue, it’s a choking emergency. It means the airway could be blocked or severely restricted.

What to Do If Someone Is Choking on Water

  1. Stay Calm: It’s crucial for both you and the person choking. Panic can exacerbate the situation.
  2. Ask if They’re Okay: If they can talk, they can breathe. However, if they’re unable to speak or are struggling for breath, you need to take action.
  3. Encourage Coughing: If they can still cough, encourage them to do so. It can help clear the obstruction.
  4. Call for Help: If the person continues to show signs of distress, call emergency services immediately.
  5. Back Blows: Stand to the side and slightly behind the person. Provide firm back blows between the shoulder blades using the heel of your hand. It can help dislodge any obstruction.
  6. Abdominal Thrusts (Heimlich Maneuver): If back blows don’t work, stand behind the person, wrap your arms around their waist, tilt them forward slightly, and give quick, upward abdominal thrusts.
  7. Continue Until Help Arrives: If the person loses consciousness, start CPR if you’re trained to do so. Continue life-saving measures until professional help arrives.

Common risks of choking with water you should know

Choking on water is a common occurrence that many people experience at some point in their lives. While the reflexive coughing that ensues is usually enough to clear the water from the airway, there are potential risks associated with choking on water. Here’s a discussion of some of these risks:

Image alt text: choking on water. A sign of a choking victim.

Author credit: By Rawanloasa – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=48516089

  • Aspiration Pneumonia:

When water, saliva, food, or stomach contents are inhaled into the lungs, it can lead to a condition called aspiration pneumonia. This is an infection caused by inhaling bacteria present in the aspirated material.

The lungs are a sterile environment. Introducing bacteria from the mouth or stomach can lead to an infection. People with weakened immune systems, the elderly, or those with reduced cough reflexes are at higher risk.

  • Laryngospasm

A laryngospasm is a sudden and involuntary contraction of the vocal cords.

Laryngospasms can obstruct airflow, making it difficult to breathe. This is usually temporary, but it can be distressing. It often feels like choking or as if the throat has closed up.

  • Decreased Oxygen Supply:

A strong choking episode can temporarily restrict airflow, limiting the amount of oxygen that reaches the lungs.

Reduced oxygen supply can lead to hypoxia, a condition where there isn’t enough oxygen in the body to sustain bodily functions. This can lead to dizziness, confusion, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness.

  • Panic and Anxiety:

The sensation of choking or struggling for air can induce panic or anxiety attacks in some individuals.

Panic can exacerbate the choking sensation, making it harder for the individual to calm down and breathe normally. It can also lead to lightheadedness and fainting.

  • Injury from Response Actions:

In attempts to help someone who appears to be choking, bystanders might employ back blows, abdominal thrusts, or other interventions.

If these actions are applied incorrectly or with excessive force, they can lead to injuries such as rib fractures, internal injuries, or worsening of the choking episode.

  • Prolonged Choking:

In rare cases, the sensation of choking might not quickly resolve. Extended periods without adequate oxygen can lead to serious complications, including brain damage.

  • Water Intoxication:

This is not directly related to the act of choking but consuming vast amounts of water in a short time.

Drinking excessive amounts of water can lead to a dangerous drop in blood sodium levels, known as hyponatremia. Symptoms range from nausea and headache to seizures and coma in severe cases.

5 Commonly Asked Questions About Choking on Water

  1. Why do we sometimes choke on water?

Our windpipe and food pipe have a common opening. Sometimes, when we swallow water, it might accidentally enter the windpipe, causing us to cough.

  1. Can you die from choking on water?

While it’s rare, choking on water can lead to complications if not addressed, especially if the individual has underlying health issues.

  1. How can I prevent choking on water?

Take small sips, avoid talking while drinking, and don’t rush.

  1. What’s the difference between choking and aspirating?

Choking is the physical obstruction of the airway, often due to a foreign object. Aspiration is when food, drink, or other materials are breathed into the lungs.

  1. Should I drink water if I’m still coughing from choking on it?

It’s best to wait until the coughing subsides. Once it stops, take slow sips to soothe your throat.

Conclusion

Choking on water, while often harmless, can occasionally escalate into a serious situation. Knowing the difference between a simple coughing fit and genuine choking is critical. Always prioritize safety, stay calm, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed.

Your prompt and accurate response can make all the difference in a choking emergency. Remember, when in doubt, it’s always better to err on the side of caution.