Feeling a foreign body sensation in the throat after eating spicy food

A sensation of a foreign body in the throat after eating spicy food may be caused by capsaicin irritating the mucosa, dry and sensitive throat, chronic pharyngitis, allergic pharyngitis, or reflux laryngitis. This can be improved by avoiding spicy foods, staying hydrated, and using appropriate medications. If the sensation persists or is accompanied by sore throat or difficulty swallowing, medical attention should be sought promptly.

1. Capsaicin irritation of the mucosa: Capsaicin in chili peppers directly irritates the throat's mucous membrane, causing congestion and swelling, leading to a foreign body sensation and a burning feeling. It is recommended to reduce or avoid spicy foods and rinse the mouth with warm water after eating to alleviate mucosal irritation.

2. Dry and sensitive throat: The throat mucosa is inherently dry, and capsaicin exacerbates moisture loss, making the mucosa more sensitive and prone to a foreign body sensation, especially when consuming spicy foods on an empty stomach. It is advised to drink plenty of water and consume moisturizing foods such as tremella fungus soup to enhance mucosal hydration.

3. Chronic pharyngitis: The throat mucosa remains in a state of chronic inflammation; stimulation by capsaicin worsens the inflammation, causing mucosal congestion and hyperplasia, resulting in a foreign body sensation along with dryness and itching. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as Qinghou Lixian Granules, Watermelon Frost lozenges, or Compound Borax Mouthwash to relieve symptoms.

4. Allergic pharyngitis: Some individuals are allergic to capsaicin or other components in chili peppers. Upon exposure, an allergic reaction occurs in the throat mucosa, causing a foreign body sensation along with sneezing and throat itching. Patients may, under medical supervision, take medications like Loratadine Syrup, Montelukast Sodium Chewable Tablets, or Budesonide Suspension to alleviate discomfort.

5. Reflux laryngitis: Capsaicin stimulates gastric acid secretion, which then refluxes into the throat, corroding the mucosa and causing a foreign body sensation, often accompanied by acid reflux and discomfort behind the breastbone. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications such as Omeprazole Enteric-coated Capsules, Domperidone Tablets, or Lanqin Oral Liquid to improve symptoms.

Maintain throat hydration by drinking sufficient water, choose light and easily digestible foods, avoid excessive consumption of spicy or overly hot foods, maintain regular作息 (daily routines), stay away from irritants such as dust and smoke, and protect the health of your throat mucosa.