What is the most common airway obstruction in children?

The most common airway obstruction in children is foreign body aspiration. This occurs when a child inhales small objects, such as toys, coins, or food particles, that can easily become lodged in the airway. Children are particularly susceptible to this type of obstruction due to their natural curiosity and tendency to explore objects by placing them in their mouths.

When a foreign body obstructs the airway, it can lead to serious respiratory distress and even life-threatening situations if not addressed promptly. Recognizing the signs of foreign body aspiration, such as sudden coughing, gagging, difficulty breathing, or a distinctive change in behavior, is critical for caregivers and healthcare providers.

Although choking on food is included as a related scenario, it is a more specific instance of foreign body aspiration. Other options like severe allergic reactions and respiratory infections can cause airway swelling or obstruction but are less common as direct causes of acute airway obstruction compared to the prevalence of foreign body aspiration in young children.