Foreign body sensation in the throat?
Hello, doctor.
While eating udon noodles, I suddenly felt discomfort as if something had gone into my nasal cavity.
It felt like it slipped down, and I wasn't sure if I swallowed it.
Later, I felt a sensation of something foreign in my throat and ended up spitting out a mouthful.
Since then, I've had a persistent feeling of something being stuck.
When I looked in the mirror, I noticed that it seemed like I was just having an illusion of touching the uvula with my tongue while trying to clear my throat, possibly due to being overly concerned and tense after spitting.
I would like to ask if food could accidentally cause aspiration pneumonia in this situation.
I've seen discussions in my family group about this, which has made me a bit worried.
Also, would drinking more water help alleviate this sensation, as I still feel something in my throat? Thank you.
p, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/18
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: If there is severe coughing without swallowing, it generally should not lead to aspiration pneumonia.
It may just be inflammation of the oropharynx or nasopharynx, or a sensation of a foreign body caused by an irritant.
It is advisable to drink more water and self-monitor.
If symptoms persist for more than three days without improvement, it is recommended to seek medical attention for confirmation.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.
Reply Date: 2020/04/18
More Info
The sensation of a foreign body in the throat, often described as a feeling of something stuck or an obstruction, can be quite distressing. This sensation may arise from various causes, and understanding these can help alleviate concerns and guide appropriate actions.
One common reason for this sensation is the physical irritation of the throat, which can occur after eating, especially if food is not swallowed properly. In your case, while eating udon noodles, it’s possible that a piece of food may have temporarily lodged in your throat or nasal cavity, leading to discomfort. This can trigger a reflexive response, causing you to feel as if something is still stuck even after you have cleared your throat or coughed.
Another potential cause is anxiety or hyperawareness of bodily sensations. After experiencing discomfort, it’s not uncommon to become overly focused on the sensation, which can exacerbate feelings of unease. This heightened awareness can create a cycle of anxiety, where the more you think about the sensation, the more pronounced it feels.
In terms of your concern about aspiration pneumonia, it’s important to note that aspiration occurs when food or liquid enters the airway instead of the esophagus. If you did not experience choking or coughing at the time of swallowing, the risk of aspiration pneumonia is significantly reduced. However, if you feel that food has entered your airway, it’s advisable to monitor for symptoms such as persistent cough, difficulty breathing, or fever, which could indicate aspiration.
Drinking water can indeed help alleviate the sensation of a foreign body in the throat. It can help wash down any residual food particles and soothe the throat. Additionally, staying hydrated is essential for maintaining mucosal health in the throat, which can help reduce irritation.
If the sensation persists, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare professional. They can perform a thorough examination, possibly including a laryngoscopy, to visually assess the throat and determine if there are any obstructions or signs of inflammation.
In summary, while the sensation of a foreign body in the throat can be concerning, it is often related to irritation or anxiety rather than a serious condition. Drinking water can provide relief, and if symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical advice is recommended. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.
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