What to do when you inhale water
Nov 25, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
After choking on water, immediately take first-aid measures such as maintaining airway patency, performing the Heimlich maneuver, encouraging voluntary coughing, monitoring breathing status, and promptly clearing water from the mouth and nose to quickly reduce the risk of airway obstruction. If symptoms such as difficulty breathing, cyanosis, persistent severe coughing, or altered consciousness occur, seek immediate medical attention. Keep the person who choked on water sitting upright or leaning forward with their head turned to the side.
After choking on water, immediate first aid measures should be taken to maintain airway patency, perform the Heimlich maneuver, encourage voluntary coughing, monitor breathing status, and promptly clear water from the mouth and nose to quickly reduce the risk of airway obstruction. If symptoms such as difficulty breathing, cyanosis, persistent severe coughing, or altered consciousness occur, seek medical attention immediately.
1. Maintain Airway Patency: Have the person sit upright or lean forward with their head turned to one side to prevent lying flat, which could allow more water to enter the airway, thereby creating favorable conditions for subsequent clearance and breathing.
2. Perform the Heimlich Maneuver: For individuals severely choked on water who cannot breathe, stand behind them, wrap your arms around their waist, clasp your hands into a fist, and deliver quick upward abdominal thrusts to use internal pressure to expel water from the airway.
3. Encourage Voluntary Coughing: Gently pat the person’s back to prompt forceful, self-initiated coughing, using the airflow generated by coughing to expel residual water from the airway and relieve discomfort.
4. Monitor Breathing Status: Closely observe respiratory rate and watch for signs of wheezing or cyanosis. If breathing remains stable, continue monitoring; if rapid or labored breathing develops, implement further emergency measures promptly.
5. Promptly Clear Water from Mouth and Nose: Use a clean towel or tissue to wipe away any remaining water from the mouth and nose to prevent re-aspiration that may trigger additional coughing, ensuring these passages remain clean and unobstructed.
During daily drinking or swimming, avoid talking, laughing, or rough play. Children who have choked on water require close supervision and should avoid vigorous activity afterward. Control drinking speed, warm up properly before swimming, and wear appropriate protective gear to minimize the risk of water inhalation.
