How does your airway get blocked?

Your airway can get blocked in a number of ways, primarily by obstructions preventing air from reaching your lungs.

Common Causes of Airway Blockage

Several factors can lead to an airway obstruction:

Foreign Bodies: This is a common cause, especially in children.
- Examples include peanuts, other foods that are breathed in, pieces of balloons, buttons, coins, and small toys.
Infections: Infections of the upper airway can cause swelling and block the passage of air.
Injury: Trauma to the upper airway area can lead to swelling, bleeding, or structural damage that obstructs airflow.
Peritonsillar Abscess: A collection of infected material near the tonsils can swell and block the airway.

Cause	Description	Solution (General)
Foreign Object (Food)	Food, especially small, round items, gets lodged in the throat.	Heimlich maneuver; back blows.
Foreign Object (Small Toy)	Small toys or parts of toys can be inhaled, particularly by young children.	Immediate medical attention; removal by trained professionals.
Upper Airway Infection	Infections like epiglottitis or croup cause swelling that narrows the airway.	Medical intervention; antibiotics; sometimes intubation or tracheostomy.
Trauma to Upper Airway	Injuries can cause swelling, bleeding, or structural collapse.	Stabilize the airway; medical intervention for repair and to ensure adequate breathing.
Peritonsillar Abscess	Infected material near the tonsils creates swelling.	Drainage of the abscess; antibiotics.