Dramatic video shared by TRT World highlights life-saving self-rescue technique and importance of first-aid awareness
A medical worker in Türkiye has gone viral after a dramatic video showed him saving his own life while choking alone, using a chair to perform the Heimlich maneuver on himself. The footage, shared by TRT World, captures the tense moments when Ilyas Yildir found himself in a potentially fatal situation with no one nearby to assist.
According to the video, Yildir was eating when food became lodged in his throat, blocking his airway. With no immediate help available, the healthcare professional quickly assessed the situation and acted decisively. Drawing on his medical knowledge and first-aid training, he positioned himself against the back of a sturdy chair and forcefully thrust his upper abdomen against it—effectively performing the Heimlich maneuver on himself.
Within moments, the obstruction was dislodged, restoring his ability to breathe and preventing what could have turned into a tragic incident. The entire episode was captured on camera, underscoring both the danger of choking when alone and the critical importance of knowing basic emergency response techniques.
The Heimlich maneuver, also known as abdominal thrusts, is a widely recognized first-aid procedure used to treat upper airway obstructions caused by foreign objects. While it is commonly performed by another person, health experts note that in emergencies where no assistance is available, individuals can attempt a self-administered version using a firm object such as the back of a chair or countertop.
The viral video has sparked widespread discussion online about choking hazards, especially during solitary meals, and the need for broader public education on life-saving skills. Health professionals emphasize that choking can occur unexpectedly and that immediate action is crucial when airflow is blocked.
Experts advise that anyone experiencing severe choking—where they cannot speak, cough, or breathe—should act quickly. If alone, leaning over a firm surface and delivering sharp abdominal thrusts may help expel the obstruction. However, seeking medical evaluation afterward is also recommended to rule out internal injury or lingering complications.
Yildir’s quick thinking and calm response have been widely praised, with many viewers calling his actions a powerful reminder that first-aid knowledge can mean the difference between life and death. The incident has reignited calls for increased public training in CPR and choking response techniques, reinforcing that emergency preparedness is not just for medical professionals—but for everyone.
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