Suffocated

Choking on food, drowning, strangulation, chemical inhalation (like carbon monoxide), or severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). Signs to Watch For: Clutching the throat (universal sign of choking).

Begin CPR (chest compressions) to keep blood flowing to the brain. Suffocated

Depending on the context, "suffocated" can refer to a life-threatening medical emergency (asphyxia), a physical safety hazard, or a figurative feeling of being overwhelmed. Choking on food

Administer an epinephrine auto-injector (e.g., EpiPen) if available. Choking: First aid - Mayo Clinic chemical inhalation (like carbon monoxide)