Trouble Swallowing

[DaveinSeattle]

About 2 months ago, I choked on some saliva for no reason.  It was like I swallowed down my windpipe, and it took a minute or two to clear my throat and get back to normal swallowing and breathing.  Since then I've had multiple episodes where I go to swallow food or water, and feel like the same thing is going to happen.  Only once did I actually get food stuck in my throat, but I was able to bring it back up immediately and then swallow normally.  But other times I go to swallow (usually liquid or saliva) and it seems to start down the windpipe, and I catch it before I choke.  And then my throat is a little hoarse afterwards for an hour or so.  I would just forget about it, and then 2-3 days later it would happen again.  After 4-5 weeks of this, I started to worry about it a little more, and of course now I seem to notice tightness in my lower front neck and focus more when I swallow so I don't choke.  But for the most part, swallowing food is not a problem, it's more the saliva between bites of food.  It's been fine for a couple days now, but expect it to return at any time.  Don't know if this makes any sense or not.  No other major symptoms, and just completed a physical about a 6 weeks ago with no problems.  I have been checked for GERD before, but not having any other symptoms related to that at the moment either.  Any suggestions?  Thanks!

[retz225]

Make an appt with your Dr....explain your worries and symptoms.
Im no Dr but I think you have an anxiety issue. It often happens while eating and trying to swallow.... You sort of freak out right?   Calm down I think youre fine.

[Vivek V Gurudutt, MD]

A complete examination by an ent physician would be the most prudent action to take.  In addition to taking a look at your throat and voice box, your physcian may elect to have you get a swallow evaluation.  The first step is being seen.  Good luck.