What is a sign of severe airway obstruction?

A key sign of severe airway obstruction is the inability to speak. This indicates that the individual cannot generate enough airflow to vibrate their vocal cords and produce sound. Another critical sign is cyanosis, which is a bluish discoloration of the skin, particularly around the lips and fingertips, resulting from insufficient oxygen in the blood. Furthermore, a person with severe airway obstruction may exhibit universal choking sign, which is a instinctive gesture involving grabbing at the throat with one or both hands. Finally, if an individual is losing consciousness, this is a critical sign of severe airway obstruction that requires immediate intervention.