What causes frequent choking while eating?
Dec 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
In general, frequently choking while eating may be related to factors such as food-related issues, eating habits, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), chronic pharyngitis, or esophageal cancer. If experiencing discomfort, it is recommended to seek immediate medical attention and undergo symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. In daily life, one should adjust eating habits, avoid eating too quickly, and refrain from consuming overly hard or large pieces of food.
Generally, frequently choking while eating may be related to food issues, eating habits, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), chronic pharyngitis, esophageal cancer, and other causes. If experiencing discomfort, it is recommended to seek immediate medical attention and undergo symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Food-related Issues
Foods that are excessively hard, large, or dry may cause difficulty swallowing. Additionally, improper food pairing without sufficient soup or liquid intake during meals may hinder smooth swallowing and lead to choking. It is recommended to ensure food is thoroughly cooked until tender, cut into small pieces, and accompanied by adequate soup or beverages.
2. Eating Habits
Eating too quickly or hastily without adequately chewing food, or being distracted while eating—such as talking loudly or laughing—can easily lead to choking during swallowing. One should chew food thoroughly before swallowing and avoid distractions during meals.
3. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Long-term smoking, alcohol consumption, fungal infections, and other factors may trigger GERD. Inflammation can cause abnormal sensations during swallowing, leading to a choking feeling. Moreover, long-term gastroesophageal reflux may lead to complications such as esophageal fibrosis and narrowing, which can impair swallowing function. Symptoms often include retrosternal burning sensation and pain. Treatment options under medical guidance may include medications such as colloidal bismuth pectin capsules, lansoprazole tablets, or omeprazole enteric-coated capsules.
4. Chronic Pharyngitis
Chronic pharyngitis may be caused by chronic upper respiratory tract inflammation, excessive smoking or alcohol consumption, and other factors. Due to inflammation, patients may experience choking or a blocked sensation while swallowing. Symptoms may include a foreign body sensation or dryness in the throat. Treatment options under medical guidance may include medications such as amoxicillin capsules, azithromycin dispersible tablets, or Guilin Watermelon Frost tablets.
5. Esophageal Cancer
Long-term smoking, alcohol consumption, unhealthy dietary habits, genetic factors, and other causes may lead to esophageal cancer. As the tumor grows, the esophageal lumen may narrow or become obstructed, making it difficult to pass food through, causing a sensation of choking or a foreign body in the throat. Common accompanying symptoms include weight loss, fatigue, and anemia. Medical treatment options under a physician's guidance may involve surgical procedures such as esophagectomy.
In daily life, one should adjust eating habits, avoid eating too quickly, and refrain from consuming overly hard or large pieces of food. Individuals experiencing difficulty swallowing are advised to undergo regular medical checkups.
