What occurs during choking?

During choking, food or another object obstructs the trachea, which is the airway that carries air to and from the lungs. When the trachea is blocked, it prevents air from reaching the lungs, leading to difficulty in breathing and potential hypoxia, a condition where the body or a region of the body is deprived of adequate oxygen supply.

This blockage can be either partial or complete; in a complete obstruction, the person is unable to breathe at all and may begin to show signs of distress. Recognizing the symptoms of choking, such as clutching the throat, difficulty speaking, or a bluish skin color, is vital for a lifeguard to take appropriate action swiftly and effectively.

The other options mentioned do not accurately describe what happens during choking. Food entering the esophagus refers to normal swallowing and does not relate to choking. A clear airway indicates that there is no obstruction, which contradicts the scenario of choking. Absorption of food into the bloodstream cannot occur if it is lodged in the airway, as digestion and absorption only take place once food has successfully passed through the esophagus into the stomach.