What does it mean when I feel like food is getting stuck in my chest?

Generally, feeling a sensation of food getting stuck in the chest while eating may be caused by eating too quickly, dry food, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), chronic pharyngitis, pancreatitis, or other reasons. If necessary, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention to identify the underlying cause and receive further treatment. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Eating Too Quickly

Eating too quickly may prevent food from being adequately chewed and mixed with saliva, thereby causing a sensation of choking during swallowing. Performing several consecutive swallowing motions may help the food pass into the stomach more smoothly. Local clockwise massage may also help relieve the discomfort in the chest area.

2. Dry Food

Consuming excessively dry or low-moisture foods such as biscuits or dried steamed buns may cause a choking sensation due to poor passage through the esophagus. It is advisable to consume such foods together with fluids like water, soup, or milk to moisten and soften the food, facilitating easier swallowing.

3. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD typically occurs due to long-term improper eating habits that damage the esophageal sphincter or the mucosal barrier of the esophagus, possibly causing symptoms such as nausea, acid reflux, or a sensation of something stuck in the chest. Under a doctor's guidance, oral medications such as omeprazole capsules, mosapride citrate dispersible tablets, or domperidone tablets may be used for treatment.

4. Chronic Pharyngitis

Chronic pharyngitis may be associated with unhealthy dietary habits, such as long-term smoking or alcohol consumption, which can cause inflammation in the throat area, leading to symptoms like a feeling of something stuck, pain, dryness, itching, or coughing. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as Isatidis Root Granules (Banlangen), Pharyngitis Tablets, or Pudilan Xiaoyan Oral Liquid may be used for treatment.

5. Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is an inflammatory condition of the pancreas that may cause symptoms such as nausea, abdominal distension, and vomiting. In severe cases, a sensation of something stuck in the chest may occur. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as pantoprazole sodium enteric-coated tablets, levofloxacin hydrochloride tablets, or Longdan Xiegan Pills may be appropriately used for treatment.

When eating, one should chew food thoroughly and eat slowly, especially hard or coarse foods such as meat and bread, to reduce the risk of choking. Avoid becoming overly emotional or stressed during meals, as emotional fluctuations may affect swallowing function.