How can the elderly prevent food from getting stuck in their throat?
Recently in Hong Kong, two elderly people, in their respective homes, suspected of choking on food (tangyuan and meatballs respectively) and died after being rushed to the hospital for emergency treatment. According to figures released by the North District Hospital, as early as 2002, the hospital alone received over a thousand cases of citizens seeking treatment for foreign objects stuck in their throats.
The elderly and young children are both considered high-risk groups for fatal choking. The organs and muscle coordination of young children are not yet fully developed, while the elderly experience a gradual decline in these areas. This is a reminder for all elderly individuals: be extra cautious when eating. Because foods like meatballs and tangyuan have slippery surfaces, they can easily slide whole down the throat, getting stuck and unable to move up or down, or "going the wrong way" into the trachea, causing suffocation. Therefore, when eating certain round-shaped foods, it is crucial to concentrate to avoid accidents.
Especially for those who have had a stroke, the risk of choking on food and suffocating is even higher. One of the two deceased elderly individuals was an 80-year-old surnamed Zhang, who had a stroke and had difficulty walking. Her children had hired a domestic helper to care for her and her husband. As the Winter Solstice approached, Mrs. Zhang instructed the helper to cook a pot of tangyuan, symbolizing family reunion, but unexpectedly, this led to her parting with her family.
Doctor's advice: The elderly should try to avoid eating whole, round-shaped foods of a certain size. They can be cut into smaller pieces before eating. Even if a whole piece is put in the mouth, one must concentrate on biting it with teeth first. Avoid talking or laughing while eating, and also avoid drinking alcohol to prevent accidental choking. Those who care for the elderly should also pay attention to cutting their food into small pieces for safety.
A person who is conscious and choking often has an initial instinct to forcefully swallow the object. In fact, it is easier to cough it out. Those nearby should remind them of this. For an unconscious person who is choking, while immediately contacting emergency services, lay the person flat on the ground and press on their chest. This can create pressure to push the food out.