Choking Incident: Persistent Cough and Chest Discomfort

Q: Choking Incident: Persistent Cough and Chest Discomfort

Hello： If there is a foreign object in the trachea, coughing should be quite severe. <br>Currently, it appears to resemble allergy symptoms. <br>You can consult a pulmonologist to check for asthma attacks, or you may also consider seeing a traditional Chinese medicine practitione

Choking sensation with an itchy chest?

Hello Doctor, on the evening of July 10th, I choked a little on some vegetable leaves during dinner, which caused me to cough violently for a few seconds, but I returned to normal shortly after.
However, for the next few days, I felt persistent itching and swelling in my throat, and a sensation of something being stuck deep in my lungs, which made me want to cough.
On July 12th, I traveled to a high-altitude area with low temperatures.
Before going up the mountain, I drank a cold beverage, and afterwards, the swelling and pain worsened.
My family members patted my back, and the sensation of something being stuck in my lungs disappeared, but it was replaced by noticeable post-nasal drip and an itchy sensation while breathing.
After descending, I entered an air-conditioned room, and in the mornings, I would feel a particular itch in my lungs, which made me want to cough.
I also experienced dizziness and nausea, but I am unsure if this is due to the long bus ride, anxiety, or a lung condition.
So far, it has been a week without fever, and I do not cough frequently; I only cough or clear my throat when I feel lung itchiness or difficulty breathing.
I would like to ask: 1.
Is it possible that there is a foreign object in my airway, or is it simply bronchial sensitivity, cough irritation, and nasal allergies? In the past, similar symptoms improved after seeing a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, but this time I am cautious because of the choking incident...
2.
Should I consider getting a chest X-ray or CT scan? Thank you.
P.S.
I do not smoke and have no history of pneumonia.
I had asthma in childhood, but it has not recurred since elementary school.
I have heard that pneumonia does not always present with fever, so I am quite concerned.

m, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/18

Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology

Hello: If there is a foreign object in the trachea, coughing should be quite severe.
Currently, it appears to resemble allergy symptoms.
You can consult a pulmonologist to check for asthma attacks, or you may also consider seeing a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner to adjust your constitution!

Reply Date: 2020/07/18

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a series of concerning symptoms following a choking incident, and it's understandable to feel anxious about your health, especially when it involves your respiratory system. Let's break down your situation and address your questions.

1. Possibility of Foreign Body in the Airway: After a choking incident, it is indeed possible for a small piece of food or other material to become lodged in the airway, leading to persistent cough, throat irritation, or a sensation of something being stuck. However, if you were able to cough effectively and recover within seconds, it is less likely that a significant obstruction remains. The symptoms you describe, such as throat irritation and a feeling of something in your lungs, could also be due to irritation from the initial choking episode, which may have caused inflammation in your airways.
2. Airway Sensitivity and Post-Nasal Drip: Your symptoms of throat irritation and cough could also be attributed to airway sensitivity, which can occur after an incident of choking. Additionally, the cold weather and consuming cold beverages may have exacerbated your symptoms, leading to increased mucus production or post-nasal drip, which can cause coughing and throat discomfort. The sensation of itchiness in the lungs and throat can also be a sign of allergies or respiratory sensitivity, particularly if you have a history of asthma or allergies.

3. Need for Imaging: Given that your symptoms have persisted for over a week without improvement, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. A chest X-ray or CT scan may be warranted to rule out any complications, such as pneumonia or other lung issues, especially since you mentioned a history of asthma. While pneumonia can occur without fever, other symptoms like persistent cough, difficulty breathing, or chest discomfort should be taken seriously.

4. When to Seek Immediate Care: If you experience worsening symptoms, such as significant difficulty breathing, chest pain, or if you develop a fever, you should seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of a more serious condition that requires prompt treatment.

5. Management of Symptoms: In the meantime, consider using a humidifier to moisten the air, which can help soothe your throat and reduce coughing. Staying hydrated is also important, as it helps thin mucus and can ease throat irritation. Over-the-counter antihistamines may help if you suspect allergies are contributing to your symptoms.

6. Follow-Up: Since you have a history of asthma, it may be beneficial to follow up with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and any potential need for asthma management or allergy testing.
In summary, while your symptoms may be related to airway sensitivity or post-nasal drip following the choking incident, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any serious conditions and to receive appropriate care. Your health and peace of mind are important, and addressing these symptoms early can lead to better outcomes.

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