Choking on Food: Throat and Breathing Issues

Choking while eating?

Last Saturday, I choked while eating and started coughing.
At first, I thought I had cleared it and continued eating, but afterwards, I occasionally had difficulty breathing over the weekend.
On Monday, I felt better, but since then, I've been experiencing intermittent chest pain and coughing 1 to 2 times a day.
Starting Monday, I've also felt itchy in my nose and sneezed 1 to 2 times.
My eating has been normal, but today in the afternoon, I began to experience more persistent chest pain, and my breathing has been variable.
I also have a slight sore throat and phlegm.
Could this be caused by the coughing? Is it possible that a piece of food is lodged in my airway? I have anxiety disorder, so could my anxiety be causing me to believe that food is stuck in my airway? Should I seek medical evaluation or just monitor my symptoms?

Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/06

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if you continue to feel unwell, you may consider seeing an otolaryngologist or a pulmonologist for an examination.
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: 2021/07/06

More Info

Choking on food can lead to a variety of complications, especially if it results in persistent symptoms such as coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Based on your description, it seems that you experienced a choking incident that may have caused some irritation or injury to your throat or airways. The symptoms you are experiencing, including intermittent chest pain, coughing, and nasal irritation, could be related to several factors.

First, when food is aspirated or lodged in the throat, it can cause immediate coughing as the body attempts to clear the obstruction. If the food is not fully expelled, it can lead to inflammation or irritation of the throat and airways, which may explain your ongoing cough and throat discomfort. Additionally, coughing can lead to muscle strain in the chest, which might be the source of your chest pain.

The presence of phlegm and the sensation of nasal irritation could also indicate that your body is responding to the irritation caused by the choking incident. This could manifest as post-nasal drip, where mucus from the nasal passages drips down the back of the throat, leading to coughing and throat discomfort.
Regarding your concerns about a food particle being lodged in your airway, it is possible, especially if you are experiencing difficulty breathing. However, if you are able to eat normally without choking or significant discomfort, it is less likely that a food particle is still lodged in your trachea or bronchi.
Your anxiety may also play a role in how you perceive these symptoms. Anxiety can heighten awareness of bodily sensations and lead to increased worry about potential health issues, including the fear of choking or having something stuck in your throat. This can create a cycle of anxiety that exacerbates your symptoms.

Given the persistence of your symptoms, particularly the chest pain and difficulty breathing, it would be prudent to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough examination, which may include imaging studies or a bronchoscopy if necessary, to rule out any obstruction or other underlying issues.
In the meantime, here are some recommendations:
1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help soothe your throat and thin mucus.

2. Avoid Irritants: Stay away from smoke, strong odors, and allergens that could exacerbate your symptoms.

3. Practice Relaxation Techniques: Since you have a history of anxiety, consider techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help manage your anxiety levels.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, noting any changes or worsening conditions, and share this information with your healthcare provider.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be related to the choking incident, they could also be influenced by anxiety or other factors. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and to ensure that any potential complications are addressed promptly. Your health and peace of mind are important, and seeking help is a proactive step in managing your well-being.

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