# Aspiration

Aspiration occurs when foreign material such as food, liquid, or vomit enters the airway or lungs. It can lead to choking or serious complications like infection.

**What is aspiration and how should it be managed?**

## Symptoms

- Coughing or gagging during eating or vomiting
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Noisy or wheezy breathing
- Bluish lips or skin (cyanosis)
- Sudden onset of choking or respiratory distress

## First aid for aspiration:

1. If the person is conscious and coughing, encourage them to keep coughing.
2. If they cannot cough, speak, or breathe – begin choking first aid.
3. If unconscious, roll them onto their side and clear the airway.
4. Reassess breathing and begin CPR if needed.
5. Call 000 for emergency medical help.

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First Aid Glossary · https://cprcoursetuggerah.au/glossary/aspiration · Australia Wide First Aid (RTO 31961).