How can you help a conscious adult who is choking and unable to speak?

In the situation where a conscious adult is choking and unable to speak, the correct approach is to perform the Heimlich maneuver, also known as abdominal thrusts. This technique is designed to create increased pressure in the abdomen to expel the object that is obstructing the airway.

When a person cannot speak, cough, or breathe, it is a critical emergency that requires immediate action. The Heimlich maneuver effectively dislodges the object by using quick, upward thrusts. This increases the pressure in the chest and abdominal cavity, which can help push the object out of the airway.

Other methods, such as encouraging forceful coughing, could be beneficial if the person is experiencing mild choking and is still able to cough and breathe somewhat. However, in cases of severe choking, where the person is unable to speak or cough, immediate action with the Heimlich maneuver is vital and more effective in removing the obstruction.

The idea of giving water to drink is not advisable in a choking situation, as it could cause further obstruction rather than resolving the issue. Similarly, performing rescue breaths is inappropriate in this context since the airway is blocked, and breath cannot be delivered to the lungs until the obstruction is cleared.