What is a common sign that an infant may be choking?

When an infant is choking, one of the most critical signs to observe is their ability to make sounds. If an infant is unable to cry or cough, it indicates that their airway may be partially or completely obstructed. Crying and coughing are natural reflexes that help clear the airway, so if these actions are absent, this is a strong indication that the infant may be in distress due to choking.

In this context, being unable to make these sounds suggests that the air supply is compromised, which requires immediate attention. Recognizing this sign can help a first responder or caregiver react quickly to provide the necessary assistance, such as performing back blows or abdominal thrusts appropriate for infants. Other choices, such as the ability to cry loudly, smiling frequently, and breathing normally, do not signal choking; rather, they suggest that the infant's airway is clear and functioning well.