5-1

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5-1. RECOGNIZE COMMON CAUSES OF UPPER AIRWAY OBSTRUCTION

An object lodged in the airway of a casualty who is conscious can result in unconsciousness, clinical death, and biological death. An airway obstruction can also prevent proper ventilation of an unconscious casualty when rescue breathing or CPR is being administered. Common causes of airway obstruction are discussed below.

a. Food. Food which is not swallowed properly can enter the trachea (part of the respiratory system) instead of the esophagus (part of the digestive system). In conscious adults, meat which has not been properly chewed is the most common food obstruction. In small children, objects that can be treated like food (small buttons, for example) are common causes of airway obstruction.

b. Vomitus. Stomach contents expelled during the act of vomiting are referred to as vomitus. A casualty who inhales while vomitus is still in his mouth or pharynx can cause the vomitus to enter the airway. Inhaling vomitus is a common cause of airway obstruction in unconscious or semiconscious casualties. An elevated blood alcohol level can contribute to this problem.

c. Blood Clots. Injuries to the head or facial areas (nose, cheeks, and so forth) can cause blood clots to form in the mouth, nose, or nasal cavities. These clots can become loose and be inhaled into the trachea. Obstructions caused by blood clots are more likely to occur in unconscious casualties than in conscious casualties.

d. Tongue. The tongue can block the airway if the tongue muscles relax and fall back into the pharynx. A relaxed tongue is the most common cause of airway obstruction in unconscious casualties.

e. Other Objects. Other objects, such as dentures, can also result in blockage. Objects lodged in the upper esophagus can also press against the trachea and reduce the airflow through the trachea.

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