What causes the sensation of food getting stuck in the esophagus when eating, and what should be done about it?
Oct 13, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Haiming
Introduction
In general, difficulty swallowing food and a sensation of blockage in the esophagus may be caused by esophageal foreign bodies, chronic pharyngitis, reflux esophagitis, bile reflux gastritis, achalasia of the cardia, or other conditions, and treatment should target the underlying cause. It is important to maintain healthy lifestyle habits, avoid spicy and irritating foods such as Sichuan pepper, chili peppers, garlic, etc., to prevent interference with recovery.
Generally, difficulty swallowing food and a sensation of blockage in the esophagus may be caused by conditions such as esophageal foreign body, chronic pharyngitis, reflux esophagitis, bile reflux gastritis, or achalasia. Treatment should target the underlying cause. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Esophageal Foreign Body
If hard or sharp substances are accidentally ingested and become lodged in the esophagus, a distinct foreign body sensation may occur during eating, often accompanied by pain. Prompt medical attention is required to remove the object surgically. Antibiotics should also be administered to control and prevent infection and promote wound healing. Commonly used medications include Amoxicillin Capsules, Cefixime Capsules, and Cefuroxime Axetil Tablets.
2. Chronic Pharyngitis
This condition may result from decreased immunity leading to bacterial or viral infections, causing chronic inflammation of the mucous membranes in the throat. Symptoms include swelling, congestion, a sensation of a foreign body, itching, pain, and irritative dry cough during eating. Under medical guidance, lozenges can be used to promote mucosal secretion, maintain oral hygiene and comfort, and relieve throat discomfort. Commonly used products include Watermelon Frost Lozenges, Jinsong Qingyin Pills, and Jinsong Liyan Pills.
3. Reflux Esophagitis
Reflux esophagitis due to impaired anti-reflux function can cause irritation of the throat's mucous membranes by refluxed material, resulting in noticeable symptoms such as retrosternal burning, pain, difficulty swallowing, coughing, and hoarseness. Under medical supervision, drugs that inhibit gastric acid secretion can be used to reduce acid production, alleviate local irritation, and improve symptoms. Common medications include Omeprazole Enteric-coated Capsules, Lansoprazole Enteric-coated Capsules, and Rabeprazole Sodium Enteric-coated Capsules.
4. Bile Reflux Gastritis
Reduced gastrointestinal motility or chronic gallbladder diseases may prevent bile from flowing properly into the intestinal cavity, leading to bile reflux. The bile irritates the esophageal mucosa, causing a pronounced burning sensation. During eating, this irritation may lead to a foreign body sensation, dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. As directed by a physician, prokinetic agents can be used for treatment. Commonly prescribed medications include Domperidone Tablets, Mosapride Citrate Tablets, and Famotidine Tablets.
5. Achalasia
Achalasia results from neuromuscular dysfunction, where incomplete relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter prevents food from passing through, causing it to accumulate gradually. This increases esophageal pressure and leads to dilation, making reflux more likely. Subsequent irritation of local mucosa can cause significant dysphagia, retrosternal chest pain, and other abnormalities. Medical guidance is essential for endoscopic treatments, such as balloon dilation and stent placement at the affected site via endoscopy, or peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM), aiming to maximally restore normal esophageal function.
Maintain healthy lifestyle habits in daily life. Avoid spicy and irritating foods such as Sichuan pepper, chili peppers, and garlic, which may hinder recovery.
