What are the signs of an obstructed airway?

The signs of an obstructed airway are accurately identified by symptoms such as stridor, inability to speak, choking, and low oxygen saturation.

Stridor is a high-pitched sound that occurs during breathing, particularly when there is a blockage in the upper airway. This sound is often a clear indicator of respiratory distress caused by obstruction. The inability to speak signifies that airflow is severely restricted, preventing normal vocalization. Choking is a critical sign that highlights the urgency of the situation, where a person may be unable to breathe adequately due to an obstruction. Low oxygen saturation indicates that the body is not receiving enough oxygen, which can result from compromised airflow associated with an obstructed airway.

These symptoms collectively point to a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention to clear the obstruction and restore proper breathing. It is crucial to recognize these signs quickly to ensure prompt intervention.