Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Heimlich Maneuver - Heimlich Maneuver on Self
Overview & Description
The Heimlich maneuver is an emergency method of removing food or other foreign objects from the airway to prevent suffocation.
Who is a candidate for the procedure?
A person who is choking when no other people who can perform the procedure are around can perform a Heimlich maneuver on himself or herself.
How is the procedure performed?
The Heimlich maneuver can be performed on oneself using several different methods. One method is to place the thumb side of the fist below the rib cage and above the navel, grasp the fist with the other hand, and press the fist into the abdomen with an upward thrusting motion, repeating this motion until the object is expelled. Another method is to lean over a table edge, chair, or railing and press the upper abdomen against the edge with a quick thrust, repeating this motion until the object is expelled.
Preparation & Expectations
What happens right after the procedure?
Home Care and Complications
What are the potential complications after the procedure?
Complications can include injury to the abdominal wall, ribs or muscles. Rib fractures occasionally occur, sometimes causing injury to internal organs.
Attribution
Author:James Broomfield, MD
Date Written:
Editor:
Edit Date:
Reviewer:William M. Boggs, MD
Date Reviewed:09/04/01