Feeling of Throat Obstruction After Choking: When to Seek Further Care? - Pulmonology

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Choking on the trachea?


Hello, I choked while eating last night and now I feel like there's a foreign body in my throat that I can't cough out, but it feels like it's moving.
After visiting an ENT clinic, the doctor used a nasopharyngoscope and said there was no foreign body.
However, when I drink water or eat, I can still clearly feel something in my throat.
Should I wait it out or go to a larger hospital to check my trachea? I recently recovered from COVID-19 and have been coughing, but since choking yesterday, I haven't been coughing and it feels like something is stuck.

l, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/26

Dr. Guo Hongyi reply Pulmonology


Hello, if there is a foreign object in the trachea, most people will cough.
However, if you are feeling very uncomfortable, you should seek medical attention.

Reply Date: 2023/10/26

More Info


It sounds like you are experiencing a significant discomfort in your throat after a choking incident, which can understandably be quite distressing. Based on your description, you initially sought care from an ENT specialist who performed a nasopharyngoscopy and found no foreign body present. However, you still feel a sensation of obstruction in your throat, especially when swallowing.

First, it's important to understand that after a choking episode, it is not uncommon to experience lingering sensations of discomfort or a feeling of something being stuck in the throat, even if no physical obstruction is present. This sensation can be due to several factors, including:
1. Inflammation: The act of choking can cause irritation and inflammation in the throat, leading to a sensation of tightness or obstruction. This can be exacerbated if you have recently recovered from COVID-19, as respiratory infections can also lead to throat irritation.

2. Muscle Spasms: The throat muscles may go into spasm after a choking incident, which can create a feeling of tightness or obstruction. This is often a temporary condition that resolves as the muscles relax.

3. Psychological Factors: Sometimes, the anxiety associated with choking can lead to heightened awareness of sensations in the throat, making it feel as though there is something stuck even when there is not.

Given your symptoms and the fact that you have recently recovered from COVID-19, it is advisable to monitor your condition closely. Here are some recommendations:
- Hydration: Continue to drink plenty of fluids, as staying hydrated can help soothe the throat and may alleviate some of the discomfort.

- Soft Foods: If swallowing is uncomfortable, try consuming softer foods that are easier to swallow, such as yogurt or smoothies, to minimize irritation.

- Avoid Irritants: Stay away from irritants such as smoking, strong odors, or spicy foods that could exacerbate throat discomfort.

- Rest: Allow your throat time to heal. Avoid speaking loudly or straining your voice, as this can further irritate the throat.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop new symptoms such as difficulty breathing, severe pain, or swelling in the throat, it would be prudent to seek further medical evaluation. In particular, if you experience any signs of respiratory distress, such as wheezing or shortness of breath, you should seek emergency care immediately.

In summary, while it is likely that your symptoms are related to irritation or muscle spasms following the choking incident, it is important to remain vigilant. If you do not see improvement in the next few days or if your symptoms escalate, consider returning to a healthcare provider for further evaluation, possibly including imaging studies or a more thorough examination of the throat and airway. Your health and comfort are paramount, and it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to potential airway issues.

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