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Choking

Choking attacks may be due to aspiration, impaired respiration, muscle spasm or stridor (due to acid reflux) (MND Australia 2011).

MND Australia 2011

It is important to stress to the patient and their carer that death caused by a choking attack is rare.  

  • encourage the person with MND and their carer to stay calm and wait for the attack to pass
  • consult a physiotherapist for advice on assisted cough technique
  • medications which help discomfort related to choking include morphine, amitriptyline, benzodiazepines and glycopyrrolate.