Symptoms
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Chest pain or discomfort
Choking or gagging
Excessive drooling
Regurgitation of food
Feeling that food is stuck in the throat or chest
Coughing
Causes
Esophageal strictures (narrowing of the esophagus)
Esophageal rings or webs
Esophageal motility disorders (e.g., achalasia, esophageal spasm)
Swallowing poorly chewed food
Taking large bites of food
Underlying esophageal cancer (rare)
Dentures that are not properly fitted
Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE)
Medicine Used
Glucagon: This medication can relax the esophageal muscles, potentially allowing the food to pass.
Effervescent agents: These can sometimes help break down or dislodge the food.
Anesthetic sprays: Used to numb the throat before endoscopic procedures.
Acid reducing medications: To protect the esophagus after the impaction is resolved. Note: These medications are typically administered or prescribed by a medical professional in a hospital or clinic setting. Self-treating is not recommended.
Precautions
Chew food thoroughly before swallowing.
Take smaller bites.
Drink plenty of water while eating.
Avoid eating too quickly.
If you have a history of esophageal problems (strictures, rings, etc.), follow your doctor's recommendations.
Get properly fitted dentures if you wear them.
Seek treatment for conditions like eosinophilic esophagitis.
How long does an outbreak last?
Food impaction is not an "outbreak" in the traditional sense. It is an acute event. The impaction lasts until the food dislodges on its own (rare) or is removed via medical intervention, usually within hours.
How is it diagnosed?
Medical history and physical exam: The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history.
Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the esophagus to visualize the blockage and potentially remove the food.
Barium swallow study: X-rays are taken after you swallow a barium solution to identify any structural abnormalities in the esophagus (often done after the impaction is resolved, to prevent aspiration).
Timeline of Symptoms
Onset: Symptoms begin abruptly when the food becomes lodged.
Progression: Discomfort quickly escalates to pain and difficulty swallowing.
Resolution: Symptoms persist until the impaction is resolved, either spontaneously or through medical intervention. Without intervention, symptoms will not resolve on their own and can worsen.
Important Considerations
Aspiration: There is a risk of aspiration (food entering the lungs), which can lead to pneumonia.
Esophageal perforation: Although rare, forceful attempts to swallow or endoscopic procedures can cause a tear in the esophagus.
Underlying esophageal disease: Food impaction can be a sign of an underlying esophageal problem that needs to be addressed.
Emergency: Food impaction can be considered an emergency if there is complete obstruction of the airway or severe pain. Seek medical attention immediately.