lived, livid

Lived or lived is the past tense ( yesterday, or some time ago ) of "live", meaning to exist, to dwell, or to survive--
He lived in the United States in the  19th century.
They lived on the other side of town before they moved here.
He lived through the war, and came home to start a business.

Livid or livid means pale or blue, as from bruising or lack of breath, caused by disease, injury, or strong emotion--
He was livid, and his breathing was shallow, but the doctor thinks he'll survive.
He was livid with rage, but he didn't say a word.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He was livid and seemed to be choking, but he lived and recovered his health."