A foreign object or food item can be aspirated (sucked into) the airway and can cause obstruction and noisy breathing. Floppy tissues in the respiratory tract can cause noisy breathing due to the collapse of these tissues into the airway.
Sand is a loose, fragmented, naturally-occurring material consisting of very small particles of decomposed rocks, corals, or shells. Sand is used to provide bulk, strength, and other properties to construction materials like asphalt and concrete. It is also used as a decorative material in landscaping. Specific types of sand are used in the manufacture of glass and as a molding material for metal casting. Other sand is used as an abrasive in sandblasting and to make sandpaper. Sand was used as early as 6000 B.C. to grind and polish stones to make sharpened tools and other objects.
Portland cement is one of the most widely used materials in construction. Applications include concrete floors, walls, and pavement; concrete blocks; and different mixtures of mortar and grout. Thousands of construction workers are exposed to concrete every day without harm. But anyone who uses or supervises the use of portland cement should know its health hazards and the safe working procedures necessary to minimize exposure.