The main purpose of the Heimlich maneuver is to treat upper airway obstruction caused by a foreign body, such as food or a small object, that is blocking a person's airway and preventing them from breathing. It is a first-aid procedure that uses quick, inward and upward abdominal thrusts just below the ribcage to increase intrathoracic pressure and forcefully expel the lodged object from the airway, allowing the person to breathe again
. This maneuver is specifically indicated for conscious adults and children who are choking and unable to speak, breathe, or cough effectively due to a severe airway obstruction. It is performed by standing behind the person, wrapping the arms around their waist, and delivering sharp abdominal thrusts to dislodge the obstruction
. In summary, the Heimlich maneuver's primary goal is to save lives by quickly clearing a blocked airway in choking emergencies
