Why does my throat make a sizzling sound when I'm hungry, and what should I do about it?
Dec 01, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, a hissing sound in the throat when hungry may be caused by reduced saliva secretion leading to a dry throat, gastroesophageal reflux of gas during hunger, chronic pharyngitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or chronic laryngitis. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms through general management, medication, or other treatments as directed by a physician.
Generally, a hissing sound in the throat when hungry may be caused by reduced saliva secretion leading to dryness, gastrointestinal gas reflux during hunger, chronic pharyngitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or chronic laryngitis. It is recommended to seek medical advice promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms under a doctor's guidance through general management, medication, and other treatments. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Reduced saliva secretion and throat dryness: During hunger, salivary gland secretion decreases, leaving the throat mucosa unprotected and dry. Airflow passing over the dry mucosa produces a hissing sound, often accompanied by a mild sensation of a foreign body. Maintain regular mealtimes to avoid excessive hunger. Carry warm water and sip small amounts frequently when hungry. Sucking on sugar-free throat lozenges regularly can help keep the throat moist.
2. Gastrointestinal gas reflux during hunger: Prolonged fasting can lead to abnormally increased gastrointestinal motility, causing gas in the stomach and intestines to flow upward into the throat, irritating the mucosa and producing sounds. Develop the habit of eating smaller, more frequent meals. When hungry, consume a small amount of soda crackers or steamed buns to ease hunger. Avoid drinking coffee or strong tea on an empty stomach, and take a light walk after meals to aid digestion.
3. Chronic pharyngitis: The pharyngeal mucosa remains chronically inflamed and congested. Dryness worsens during hunger due to reduced secretions on the mucosal surface, making sounds more likely. Avoid spicy, irritating foods, smoking, and alcohol. As directed by a physician, use mouthwashes such as compound borax solution, furacilin solution, or compound chlorhexidine gargle to clean the throat and relieve inflammation.
4. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): During hunger, increased gastric acid secretion lacks food to neutralize it, making acid reflux more likely and irritating the throat mucosa, resulting in sounds and a burning sensation. Avoid eating within 2 hours before bedtime. Elevate the head of the bed by 15–20 cm while sleeping. Take acid-suppressing medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, rabeprazole sodium enteric-coated tablets, or lansoprazole enteric-coated tablets as prescribed.
5. Chronic laryngitis: Chronic swelling of the laryngeal mucosa causes the tissue to become dry and tight when hungry, producing a hissing sound as air passes through. Symptoms worsen after prolonged talking. Avoid loud or prolonged voice use. Follow medical advice to take medications such as Jinsang Kaiyin Pills, Huangshi Xiangsheng Pills, or Qingyin Pills, and combine with nebulization therapy to soothe the mucosa.
Maintain a light, easily digestible diet, and consume more throat-soothing foods like pears and white fungus (silver ear). Keep a regular sleep schedule and avoid staying up late to strengthen immunity. By adjusting dietary and lifestyle habits, throat discomfort can be gradually improved.
