Persistent Food Sensation in Throat and Blood in Stool: What to Do?

Food is stuck in the throat, and there is blood in the stool?

Hello Dr.
Lin,
About half a month ago, I experienced indigestion and took some antacids, which resolved the issue after a few days.
On February 15th, Monday, I noticed a small amount of blood in my stool, but my bowel movements have been normal and painless, with normal digestion.
On February 16th, Tuesday, and February 17th, Wednesday, I felt like food was constantly stuck in my throat and digestion was very slow.
On February 18th, Thursday, I saw about a third of the toilet water was blood when I went to the bathroom, but I did not feel any abdominal pain; however, the sensation of food being stuck in my throat persisted with slow digestion.
On February 19th, I woke up feeling that the food had digested into my stomach, but after breakfast, the sensation of food being stuck in my throat continued.
Should I proceed with an endoscopy or other examinations? Thank you for your guidance.

Xiao Xiao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/19

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

1.
If food feels stuck in the throat, it is advisable to pay attention to dietary habits, avoid overeating, eat at a moderate pace, and limit the intake of fried foods that are hard to digest.
If symptoms persist, an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is recommended to check for gastroesophageal reflux, gastritis, or peptic ulcers.

2.
Blood in the stool is often associated with issues in the rectal and anal area, commonly hemorrhoids or anal fissures, as well as colitis.
If there is recurrent blood in the stool, a consultation with a colorectal surgeon is recommended.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/02/19

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing some concerning symptoms, including blood in your stool and a persistent sensation of food being stuck in your throat. These symptoms can be indicative of several underlying issues, and it's crucial to address them promptly.

First and foremost, the presence of blood in your stool is a symptom that should never be ignored. It can be caused by a variety of conditions, ranging from benign issues like hemorrhoids or anal fissures to more serious conditions such as gastrointestinal bleeding, polyps, or even colorectal cancer. Given that you mentioned the blood appeared in your stool on multiple occasions, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. A gastroenterologist would be the appropriate specialist to evaluate your symptoms.

Regarding the sensation of food being stuck in your throat, this could be related to several factors. It might be due to esophageal issues, such as esophagitis, strictures, or even motility disorders. In some cases, anxiety can also manifest as a feeling of tightness or blockage in the throat, known as globus sensation. However, given your symptoms, it is advisable to undergo diagnostic tests, such as an upper endoscopy (esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD), to visualize the esophagus and stomach and rule out any structural abnormalities or inflammation.

In the meantime, here are some general recommendations that may help alleviate your symptoms:
1. Stay Hydrated: Ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids, as this can help with digestion and may ease the sensation of food being stuck.

2. Eat Soft Foods: Opt for softer foods that are easier to swallow and digest. Foods like yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and soups can be gentler on your throat and digestive system.

3. Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of spicy, acidic, or very hot foods that may irritate your throat or esophagus.

4. Eat Slowly: Take your time while eating, and chew your food thoroughly to help with the swallowing process.

5. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

6. Seek Medical Attention: Given the combination of blood in your stool and the sensation of food being stuck, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Do not delay in scheduling an appointment with a gastroenterologist for a thorough evaluation.

In summary, your symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Blood in the stool is a serious symptom that requires investigation, and the sensation of food being stuck in your throat should also be evaluated to rule out any underlying conditions. Please prioritize seeing a healthcare professional to address these issues effectively.

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