How to Act If Your Baby Is Choking or Gagging

 

 How to Act If Your Baby Is Choking or Gagging

By: Marwa Hassan

For many new moms, few things are more frightening than seeing their baby choke or gag. Whether caused by milk during breastfeeding or an object accidentally swallowed, choking can become a life-threatening emergency if not handled promptly and correctly

In this report, New Mamy highlights the most common causes of choking in infants, how to recognize warning signs, and what immediate actions should be taken to save a baby’s life. We also share expert tips on how to prevent choking incidents before they happen

 Common Causes of Choking in Infants

According to pediatricians, babies may choke due to

• Breastfeeding or bottle-feeding in the wrong position

• Milk entering the airway instead of the stomach

• Swallowing small food pieces that are not age-appropriate

• Putting tiny objects or toys into the mouth

 Warning Signs That Need Immediate Attention

Watch out for these red flags

• Sudden or persistent coughing

• Blue tint around the lips or face

• Difficulty breathing or complete silence

• Loss of consciousness in severe cases

 First Aid Steps for a Choking Baby

Experts recommend the following first-aid actions

1. Stay calm and focused
   Panicking will only delay your response. Keep a steady hand and act fast

2. Check for visible obstructions
   If something is clearly stuck in the baby’s mouth, try to gently remove it using your pinky. Do not push it further in

3. Back Blows

   • Hold the baby face down along your forearm, making sure their head is lower than the body

   • Give 5 firm back blows between the shoulder blades with the heel of your other hand

4. Chest Thrusts

   • If back blows don't work, turn the baby onto their back

   • Use two fingers to press the center of the chest, just below the nipple line, 5 quick thrusts

Repeat these steps alternately until the object is dislodged or emergency services arrive

? When to Call Emergency Services

• If the baby stops breathing or loses consciousness

• If repeated first-aid attempts don’t clear the obstruction

• In case of complete airway blockage

Start CPR if you're trained and wait for emergency responders

 Prevention Tips for New Moms

• Always feed your baby in a semi-upright position

• Keep small toys or objects out of reach

• Avoid solid foods before 6 months of age

• Never leave your baby unattended while feeding

 Final Note

Awareness and proper knowledge of infant first aid can make all the difference in an emergency. Your calm response and quick action could save your baby’s life

New Mamy encourages all moms to take baby-focused first aid courses and be prepared for any situation