Risk Factors for an Airway Obstruction
The risk of an airway obstruction caused by a foreign object tends to be higher in children than in adults. It is mainly because they are more likely to put small stuff and toys in their mouths and noses. Small kids also do not often chew foods thoroughly before swallowing. Their airways are small as well, making them at a higher risk. Other common risk factors may include:
– Smoking
– Inherited conditions or structural abnormalities that may lead to airway issues
– Serious allergies to foods or insect stings
– Medical conditions that make it hard to swallow food [5]
