What is universally recognized as the sign of choking?

The sign of choking that is universally recognized is hands clutching at the throat. This gesture is often an instinctive response when someone is unable to breathe properly due to an obstruction in their airway. Clutching the throat clearly indicates distress and the need for immediate assistance, signaling to bystanders that the individual is experiencing a critical emergency involving choking.

This specific action effectively communicates the urgency of the situation without the need for verbal explanation, making it a widely understood sign across various cultures. While waving arms and crying or pointing at the throat may indicate distress or discomfort, they do not specifically convey the life-threatening nature of choking. Gasping for air can occur during choking as well, but the clutching gesture serves as a more immediate and recognizable signal for help.