Feeling of something stuck between the esophagus and stomach
Jun 05, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
A sensation of something stuck between the esophagus and stomach may be caused by improper diet, psychological factors, globus sensation, esophageal spasm, reflux esophagitis, etc., and can be improved according to the specific cause. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention at a hospital and receive treatment under the guidance of a doctor. Develop good eating habits, chew food thoroughly, and avoid eating too quickly.
Feeling as though something is stuck between the esophagus and stomach may be caused by improper diet, psychological factors, esophageal foreign body sensation, esophageal spasm, reflux esophagitis, or other conditions. Improvements can be made depending on the specific cause. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital and receive treatment under a doctor's guidance.
1. Improper Diet
Eating too quickly or urgently, or consuming food that is overly dry, coarse, or in large chunks, may cause food to remain for an extended period at the junction between the esophagus and stomach, leading to a sensation of blockage. Develop healthy eating habits by chewing food thoroughly and eating slowly, avoiding hasty swallowing. Try cutting food into smaller pieces and choosing easily digestible options.
2. Psychological Factors
When experiencing mental stress, anxiety, or high pressure, the nervous system’s regulation of the muscles in the esophagus and stomach may be affected, resulting in slowed esophageal peristalsis and delayed gastric emptying, which can create a feeling of something being stuck. Try various methods to relieve psychological stress, such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or other relaxation techniques.
3. Esophageal Foreign Body Sensation
Accidentally swallowing small foreign objects—such as fish bones or bone fragments—or minor irritation to the esophageal mucosa can lead to a sensation of a foreign body, making it feel as though something is stuck. If you suspect an object is lodged, stop eating immediately and avoid forceful swallowing to prevent injury to the esophagus. Gently coughing may help dislodge the object. If the sensation persists, seek medical attention promptly; endoscopic procedures such as laryngoscopy or esophagoscopy may be used to locate and remove the object.
4. Esophageal Spasm
Sudden, involuntary strong contractions of the esophageal muscles can narrow the esophageal lumen, obstructing the passage of food and causing a choking or blockage sensation. Esophageal spasms may be related to dietary habits, psychological factors, or local irritation of the esophagus. Avoid known triggers, such as extremely hot or cold foods, and maintain emotional stability.
5. Reflux Esophagitis
Dysfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter allows stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus. Gastric acid, pepsin, and other refluxed substances irritate the esophageal lining, causing inflammation and symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing. This may result in a sensation of something stuck between the esophagus and stomach. Patients should follow their doctor’s instructions to take medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, rabeprazole sodium enteric-coated tablets, or hydrotalcite chewable tablets to relieve discomfort.
In daily life, maintain a light diet and avoid spicy or irritating foods such as garlic, spicy hot pot, and mustard. Ensure adequate rest and avoid excessive fatigue to support overall health.
