The Heimlich Maneuver: How to Respond Correctly in Choking Emergencies
A single moment can change everything. A child chokes at the dinner table, an adult suddenly can't breathe – in such situations, every second counts. The Heimlich maneuver, also known as the Heimlich grip, is one of the most important first aid measures you should know.
What is the Heimlich maneuver?
The Heimlich maneuver is a simple but effective method for removing a foreign object from the airways – such as a piece of food or a small object. A targeted thrust against the diaphragm forces air out of the lungs. The idea: the foreign object is propelled outward by the air pressure.
The technique was developed in the 1970s by US doctor Henry Heimlich – and has since saved countless lives worldwide.
When should you use the Heimlich maneuver?
You should only use the Heimlich maneuver if the affected person:
- is no longer breathing,
- cannot speak or cough,
- reacts visibly panicked,
- or clutches their throat (the so-called universal sign of choking).
If someone is still coughing, you should not interrupt the coughing – it is usually the most effective way to dislodge the foreign object yourself.
How the Heimlich maneuver works – step by step
- Stand behind the affected person.
- Wrap both arms around their upper abdomen.
- Make a fist and place it just above the navel.
- Grasp the fist with the other hand.
- Pull forcefully and sharply backward and slightly upward – as if you were lifting something up.
Repeat the process several times until the foreign object is dislodged or help arrives.
Heimlich maneuver for children
For toddlers (from about one year old), you can also use the Heimlich maneuver – but with significantly less force and an adjusted position.
Important: The maneuver must not be used on infants under one year old. In these cases, other measures such as back blows and chest compressions are required.
When the Heimlich maneuver does not work – or should not be used
As helpful as this technique is – it has its limits. There are situations in which the Heimlich maneuver does not work or can even be dangerous:
- For very small children or infants
- During pregnancy
- For severely overweight people
- For people with physical limitations (e.g. in a wheelchair)
- If you yourself are physically unable to apply enough pressure
- If the affected person is already unconscious
In such cases, broken ribs, internal injuries, or worsening the situation are possible – especially if you have never practiced the technique.
LifeSaveAir® – when the Heimlich maneuver is not enough
It is for exactly these situations that LifeSaveAir® was developed – an anti-choking device that you can use manually and without exertion. Instead of creating pressure from the outside, it works with targeted negative pressure to dislodge the foreign object from the upper airways.
The application is simple:
- Place the mask over the mouth and nose.
- Press the device gently downward to create a seal.
- Pull the handle forcefully upward – this creates a vacuum that can pull the foreign object out.
LifeSaveAir® is ideal for home, on the go, in daycare, or for relatives in need of care. Especially in moments when you feel helpless, it can make the crucial difference.
Conclusion
Knowing the Heimlich maneuver can save lives. But it is not always applicable – and not always successful. This is exactly where LifeSaveAir® comes in: as a useful addition to your first aid knowledge. Prepare yourself, because in an emergency, not only your knowledge counts, but also the right tool.