Feeling of Foreign Body in Throat: Causes and Concerns Explained

Q: Feeling of Foreign Body in Throat: Causes and Concerns Explained

Hello： If you have a sensation of a foreign body in your throat without significant pain or difficulty swallowing, you can start with self-observation. <br>If there is no severe coughing while eating, it is unlikely to cause aspiration pneumonia. <br>As for the ulcer on your tong

Foreign body sensation in the throat?

Hello, Dr.
Zheng.
I was eating pasta too quickly, and it felt like a piece got stuck in my esophagus.
I initially wanted to spit it out, but all that came out were chewed pieces, so I gave up.
However, when I swallow saliva afterward, my throat feels a bit strange, and I'm not sure if it's just my imagination or if it's related to the coughing and vomiting.
I would like to ask if this could lead to aspiration pneumonia, or if the piece is stuck in my esophagus or trachea.
Additionally, I bit my tongue, and it's been about three days; even with medication, it still hurts a bit.
Would rinsing with salt water help? I heard somewhere that a tongue ulcer lasting too long could indicate something serious, and I'm a bit worried.

yufung, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/03/10

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello: If you have a sensation of a foreign body in your throat without significant pain or difficulty swallowing, you can start with self-observation.
If there is no severe coughing while eating, it is unlikely to cause aspiration pneumonia.
As for the ulcer on your tongue, you can rinse your mouth with plain water.
Using saltwater may cause excessive irritation.
If the ulcer does not heal within two weeks, you should seek medical evaluation.
Wishing you peace and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2020/03/10

More Info

The sensation of having a foreign body in the throat, particularly after eating quickly, can be quite distressing. This feeling often arises from the irritation of the throat or esophagus due to food that may not have been swallowed properly. In your case, it seems that a piece of pasta may have partially lodged in your esophagus, leading to discomfort and a sensation of something being stuck.

Possible Causes
1. Food Obstruction: When food is swallowed too quickly, it can sometimes get stuck in the esophagus. This can lead to a sensation of tightness or discomfort in the throat. If the food is large or not chewed properly, it can cause a blockage, which may require medical intervention if it does not pass on its own.

2. Esophageal Irritation: Even if the food has passed, the esophagus may still be irritated from the rapid swallowing or from the food itself. This irritation can cause a lingering sensation of discomfort or a feeling of something being stuck.

3. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): If you have a history of acid reflux, the irritation from stomach acid can also contribute to the sensation of a foreign body in the throat.

4. Psychological Factors: Anxiety and stress can amplify physical sensations, leading to a heightened awareness of discomfort in the throat area. This can create a cycle of worry that makes the sensation feel more pronounced.

Concerns About Aspiration
Regarding your concern about aspiration pneumonia, it is important to note that aspiration occurs when food or liquid enters the airway instead of the esophagus. If you were able to swallow the food and it did not cause choking or coughing, the risk of aspiration pneumonia is relatively low. However, if you experience persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, or a feeling of tightness in the chest, it would be wise to seek medical attention.

Management Strategies
1. Stay Hydrated: Drinking water can help wash down any food that may be stuck and soothe the throat. Sipping warm liquids may also provide relief.

2. Gentle Swallowing: Try swallowing small amounts of water or soft foods to see if that alleviates the sensation. Avoid large bites or hard foods until the discomfort subsides.

3. Saltwater Gargle: Gargling with warm salt water can help soothe irritation in the throat and may assist in healing any minor injuries, such as those from biting your tongue. It can also help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms. If the sensation persists for more than a few days, or if you develop additional symptoms such as fever, difficulty swallowing, or severe pain, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

5. Consult a Doctor: If you continue to feel discomfort or have concerns about your throat or tongue, it would be beneficial to see a doctor. They can perform an examination and may recommend further tests if necessary.

Conclusion
In summary, the sensation of a foreign body in the throat after eating too quickly is often due to irritation or minor obstruction. While aspiration pneumonia is a concern, it is less likely if you did not experience choking or significant coughing. Using saltwater gargles can help with tongue pain and throat discomfort. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical advice is essential for proper evaluation and treatment.

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