A Life-Or-Death Incident

In a harrowing incident in September 2019, 88-year-old David Palumbo witnessed one of the scariest moments imaginable. Dining at an Italian restaurant in Providence, Rhode Island, he saw a fellow elderly patron collapse, a piece of bread lodged in the man's throat. Emergency responders were unable to revive him with CPR or the Heimlich maneuver, and precious minutes passed as fear descended over the scene.

Just when hope seemed lost, Palumbo, a fire department captain, utilized Magill forceps—a scissors-like device—to extract the offending bread. Thankfully, the victim survived and made a full recovery. However, many elderly choking victims are not so fortunate.

Choking: A Silent Killer

Choking kills over 4,100 Americans aged 65 and older annually, making seniors the most vulnerable demographic when it comes to this often-overlooked danger. While the death rate has remained stable, an increase in the aging population means more lives are at risk.

Rethinking Choking Prevention

In response to this alarming trend, several companies have introduced anti-choking devices aimed at older adults. Tools like LifeVac, SaveLix, VitalVac, and Dechoker are now marketed to help those who may find themselves choking without someone to assist them.

However, medical professionals remain skeptical. Dr. Nathan Charlton from the University of Virginia notes that the effectiveness of these devices is yet to be conclusively proven, and their endorsement by trusted organizations like the American Red Cross is still under evaluation.

Understanding the Choking Hazard

Choking occurs when an object obstructs the windpipe, blocking oxygen from reaching the lungs. Symptoms can include clutching the neck, an inability to speak, and distress. Tragically, brain damage can occur within minutes, underscoring the critical need for immediate action.

Older adults face heightened choking risks due to weakened throat muscles, decreased saliva production, and factors like dentures and certain medications that complicate swallowing.

Preventing Choking: What You Should Know

Reducing choking risk is possible with a few proactive measures: cut food into smaller pieces, chew slowly, and avoid distractions like talking or laughing while eating. If someone chokes, traditional first aid techniques—including back slaps and the Heimlich maneuver—are crucial to clear the blockage.

In desperate situations where a victim is alone, self-administered methods like thrusting against the back of a chair may provide relief.

Emerging Anti-Choking Devices: Pros and Cons

Manufacturers of new anti-choking devices tout their effectiveness, but they are not without risks. Designed like masks connected to suction tubes, these devices can be easily purchased for $30 to $100. Yet, research shows they may cause tongue injuries and throat swelling, raising safety concerns.

The FDA, while issuing warnings about some of these devices, has not approved any for over-the-counter sale, citing a lack of established safety and effectiveness.

Despite ongoing debates, emergency responders have found value in these devices, with some departments equipping their patrol cars with LifeVac units after successful saves.

The Need for Comprehensive Research

Experts agree that more research is essential. Notably, many still advocate for traditional techniques, like back blows and the Heimlich maneuver, which have demonstrated effectiveness. Dr. Cody Dunne, a researcher from the University of Calgary, emphasizes that while evidence for anti-choking devices is still developing, so too is our understanding of established methods.

The case for these new devices is being built, but until robust, large-scale studies validate their efficacy, the age-old methods should remain first line interventions in choking emergencies.