Esophageal Issues: The Risks of Medication Sticking in the Throat

Q: Esophageal Issues: The Risks of Medication Sticking in the Throat

Hello Mr. <br>Fu： You reported that after taking antibiotics, you felt a capsule stuck in your throat, which led to a burning sensation and a feeling of foreign body presence, along with pain and discomfort in your right chest when swallowing. <br>Clindamycin is indeed a common m

Esophageal issues, medication causing throat obstruction?

I recently experienced a bacterial parotitis infection and, after being discharged from the hospital, I have been taking medication while monitoring my condition.
During my first two attempts to swallow the capsules, I did not drink enough water, which caused the capsules to get stuck in my throat.
I subsequently drank a lot of water, but I still have a burning sensation and a feeling of something being lodged in my throat.
I had throat pain during my hospital stay, so when the pain recurred the next day, I did not pay much attention to it.
However, a few days later, I began to experience severe pain while swallowing and drinking, as if I were being cut with a knife, and I also felt pain and tightness in my right chest during swallowing.
I researched the medication online and found that this antibiotic (Clindamycin) can easily cause esophagitis if it gets stuck in the throat.
Could this be the reason for my medication-induced esophagitis?

Fu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/30

Dr. Zhang Kebin reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello Mr.
Fu: You reported that after taking antibiotics, you felt a capsule stuck in your throat, which led to a burning sensation and a feeling of foreign body presence, along with pain and discomfort in your right chest when swallowing.
Clindamycin is indeed a common medication associated with esophageal ulcers.
However, to confirm whether your symptoms are related to the medication, it is advisable to undergo an endoscopy at the hospital.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2020/12/30

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing significant discomfort after taking medication, specifically Clindamycin, and you are concerned about the possibility of medication-induced esophagitis due to the capsule getting stuck in your throat. Your symptoms, including a burning sensation in your throat, pain while swallowing, and chest discomfort, are indeed concerning and warrant further discussion.

When medications, particularly capsules or tablets, become lodged in the esophagus, they can cause localized irritation or inflammation. This condition is known as pill-induced esophagitis. Clindamycin, like many other medications, can lead to this issue if it does not pass through the esophagus quickly enough. The esophagus is not designed to handle prolonged contact with medications, especially those that can be irritating to the mucosal lining.

The symptoms you describe—burning in the throat, pain during swallowing, and discomfort in the chest—are consistent with esophagitis. In some cases, if the medication remains in contact with the esophageal lining for an extended period, it can lead to more severe inflammation, ulceration, or even strictures (narrowing of the esophagus). This can result in significant pain and difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia.

To address your concerns, here are some recommendations:
1. Hydration: It is crucial to take medications with a sufficient amount of water. This helps ensure that the capsule or tablet moves smoothly down the esophagus. A general guideline is to take medications with at least 8 ounces (about 240 mL) of water.

2. Medication Administration: If you have difficulty swallowing pills, consider discussing alternative formulations with your healthcare provider. Some medications are available in liquid form, which may be easier to swallow. Additionally, some capsules can be opened, and the contents mixed with applesauce or yogurt, but this should only be done if your doctor approves.

3. Monitoring Symptoms: Since you are experiencing significant pain and discomfort, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If the pain worsens, or if you develop new symptoms such as fever, difficulty breathing, or persistent vomiting, seek medical attention immediately.

4. Consulting a Healthcare Professional: Given your history of throat pain and the current symptoms, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare professional. They may recommend an evaluation, which could include an endoscopy to assess the esophagus and determine if there is any damage or inflammation present.

5. Avoiding Irritants: While recovering, avoid irritants such as spicy foods, alcohol, and tobacco, as these can exacerbate esophageal irritation. Instead, focus on a bland diet that is easier to swallow.

6. Follow-Up Care: If you suspect that you have developed medication-induced esophagitis, your healthcare provider may recommend treatments such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers to reduce stomach acid and promote healing of the esophagus.

In summary, it is possible that the discomfort you are experiencing is related to the capsule getting stuck and causing irritation or inflammation of the esophagus. It is essential to take medications with adequate water and to consult with a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management of your symptoms. Your health and comfort are paramount, and addressing these issues promptly can help prevent further complications.

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