What is a common sign of choking?

Gasping for breath is a common sign of choking because it indicates that a person's airway may be obstructed, preventing sufficient air from entering the lungs. When someone is choking, the body's natural response is to struggle to breathe, which manifests as gasping. This behavior is critical as it signifies an emergency situation where immediate action is required to clear the obstruction and restore normal breathing.

In contrast, while coughing can occur during choking as an attempt to expel the object blocking the airway, it is not necessarily an indication of severe obstruction. Chest pain and confusion are not typical signs of choking and might suggest different medical conditions unrelated to airway obstruction. Understanding these signs is crucial for recognizing when to intervene in choking situations effectively.