Feeling of Throat Foreign Body and Nausea After Spicy Food: Should You Get an Endoscopy? - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

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Sensation of a foreign body in the throat + nausea?


After eating spicy food, if you experience a sensation of something stuck in your throat and occasional nausea, do you need to undergo an endoscopy? Thank you.

Miss Lin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/01/24

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology


Hello Ms.
Lin: You may first reduce spicy foods (as well as sweet and sour foods) and undergo gastric medication treatment.
If there are frequent recurrences or if the treatment is ineffective, then an endoscopy should be considered.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shidian

Reply Date: 2008/01/24

More Info


Experiencing a sensation of a foreign body in the throat and occasional nausea after consuming spicy food can be concerning. While it may not always necessitate an endoscopy, it is essential to consider several factors before making a decision.

Firstly, the sensation of a foreign body in the throat, known as globus sensation, can arise from various causes. It may be related to irritation or inflammation of the throat due to spicy foods, which can lead to swelling or increased sensitivity in the mucosal lining. Spicy foods can also stimulate acid production in the stomach, potentially leading to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing discomfort and a feeling of something being stuck in the throat.

Nausea following the consumption of spicy foods can also be attributed to the irritative effects of capsaicin, the active component in chili peppers. Capsaicin can stimulate the stomach lining and lead to gastric upset, which may manifest as nausea. If these symptoms are mild and transient, they may not warrant an endoscopy.

However, if you are experiencing persistent symptoms, such as severe pain, difficulty swallowing, or if the sensation of a foreign body does not resolve, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. An endoscopy may be recommended in such cases to rule out any underlying conditions, such as esophagitis, strictures, or other abnormalities in the esophagus or stomach.

In addition, if you have a history of gastrointestinal issues, such as GERD or peptic ulcers, or if you have recently undergone any gastrointestinal procedures, it is essential to communicate this to your healthcare provider. They may suggest lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding spicy foods, eating smaller meals, and not lying down immediately after eating, to help alleviate your symptoms.

In summary, while a feeling of a foreign body in the throat and nausea after eating spicy food may not always require an endoscopy, it is crucial to monitor the severity and duration of your symptoms. If they persist or worsen, seeking medical advice is advisable. Your healthcare provider can assess your situation and determine whether further investigation, such as an endoscopy, is necessary to ensure your gastrointestinal health.

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