Putting your arms up when choking may actually hinder your ability to respond effectively to the situation. The instinct to raise your arms can be a natural reaction to panic, but it does not assist in clearing the airway.
When a person is choking, the primary goal is to dislodge the object blocking the airway. The Heimlich maneuver or encouraging coughing are the recommended responses. Raising your arms may restrict your breathing further and prevent you from performing more effective first aid actions.
To clear a choking hazard, it’s important to focus on being calm, staying upright, and attempting to expel the obstruction rather than raising your arms. If you or someone else is choking, it’s crucial to act quickly and seek help, either by performing first aid yourself or calling emergency services.