Choking on Capsules: Risks and Remedies

Q: Choking on Capsules: Risks and Remedies

Hello： If you still have symptoms, please go to the hospital for evaluation to determine the issue. <br>Thank you for your message!

Choking on a capsule?

This morning, I swallowed a capsule that got stuck on the left side of my throat.
Later, I tried to push it down by eating something and drank a lot of water.
I ended up coughing so hard that I vomited, and I'm not sure if I expelled the capsule as well.
My throat feels a bit constricted, and I have a slight feeling of tightness in my chest, which I’m unsure if it’s psychological.
After having lunch, I felt a bit better, but I still feel like there’s phlegm in my throat.
I'm not sure if the capsule is stuck in my throat, esophagus, or trachea.
I read online that if it were in the trachea, I would be coughing continuously, but I don't feel the urge to cough now.
However, I'm still worried that it might be lodged in my trachea and could cause pneumonia.

yu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/10

Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine

Hello: If you still have symptoms, please go to the hospital for evaluation to determine the issue.
Thank you for your message!

Reply Date: 2023/10/10

More Info

Choking on capsules can be a distressing experience, and it’s important to understand the risks involved and the appropriate remedies. When a capsule becomes lodged in the throat, it can lead to a range of symptoms, including coughing, a sensation of something stuck in the throat, and even vomiting, as you have experienced. The first step in addressing this situation is to assess whether the capsule is lodged in the esophagus (the tube that connects the throat to the stomach) or if it has entered the airway (trachea).

If the capsule is stuck in the esophagus, it may cause discomfort, a feeling of fullness, or even pain. In some cases, drinking water or eating soft foods can help push the capsule down. However, if the capsule has entered the airway, it can lead to choking, which is a medical emergency. Signs that the capsule may have entered the airway include difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, wheezing, or a feeling of tightness in the chest. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

In your case, since you mentioned that you have been coughing and have a sensation of phlegm in your throat, it is possible that the capsule is still lodged in the esophagus or that you are experiencing irritation from the episode. The act of coughing and vomiting may have helped dislodge the capsule, but if you still feel discomfort or have persistent symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They may perform an examination or imaging studies to determine if the capsule is still present and to assess any potential damage to the throat or esophagus.

To prevent choking on capsules in the future, consider the following tips:
1. Take Capsules with Plenty of Water: Always take capsules with a full glass of water to help them go down smoothly. This can reduce the risk of them getting stuck.

2. Avoid Lying Down: After taking medication, remain upright for at least 30 minutes. Lying down can increase the risk of capsules getting lodged.

3. Break Down the Capsule: If you have difficulty swallowing capsules, consult your doctor or pharmacist about whether the medication can be taken in a different form, such as a liquid or by opening the capsule (if safe to do so).

4. Stay Calm: Anxiety can exacerbate the sensation of something stuck in the throat. Practice deep breathing to help manage anxiety if you feel uncomfortable after taking medication.

5. Seek Medical Advice: If you frequently experience difficulty swallowing capsules or have a history of choking, discuss this with your healthcare provider. They may recommend alternative medications or strategies to help.

In summary, while choking on capsules can be alarming, understanding the risks and knowing how to respond can help alleviate anxiety and ensure safety. If you continue to experience discomfort or have concerns about your symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance and support. Your health and well-being are paramount, and it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to potential choking hazards.

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