Choking occurs when an object, often food, becomes lodged in the throat or airway, blocking airflow. This can lead to difficulty breathing, coughing, or even loss of consciousness if not resolved quickly. Common causes include eating too fast, not chewing food properly, or swallowing small objects. The Heimlich maneuver is a first aid technique used to help someone who is choking. It involves applying pressure to the abdomen to expel the object blocking the airway. Knowing how to perform this technique can be crucial in emergency situations, potentially saving a person's life.