Pills can sometimes feel lodged in the throat after swallowing, causing discomfort. This common experience often leaves people wondering why it occurs. Understanding the mechanics of swallowing and the factors that disrupt this process helps clarify why pills sometimes do not go down smoothly.
The Swallowing Process
Swallowing is a complex process involving coordinated muscle movements and anatomical structures. When a pill is placed in the mouth, the tongue pushes it towards the back of the throat, initiating the swallowing reflex. The soft palate elevates to prevent the pill from entering the nasal cavity.
The epiglottis, a flap of cartilage, folds over the voice box to seal off the windpipe, ensuring the pill travels down the correct pathway. The pill then enters the pharynx, which propels it into the esophagus. Rhythmic muscle contractions, known as peristalsis, move the pill through the esophagus and into the stomach.
Common Reasons Pills Get Stuck
Several factors can contribute to a pill feeling stuck in the throat. Insufficient moisture is a primary reason, as pills require adequate liquid to slide down smoothly. Taking pills without enough water increases the likelihood of them catching in the throat.
The physical characteristics of the pill also play a role. Large, oval, or oblong tablets and hard or soft gelatin capsules are often more challenging to swallow. Some pill coatings or textures can also make them more prone to sticking. Improper posture, such as taking pills while lying down or with the head tilted too far back, can hinder gravity’s assistance.
Certain medical conditions, termed dysphagia, can impair the swallowing mechanism. These include conditions affecting the nervous system or muscles, such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or multiple sclerosis. Esophageal issues like spasms, strictures, or inflammation from acid reflux can also narrow the passage or disrupt muscle coordination. Anxiety or hurrying when taking medication can cause throat muscles to tighten, impeding the pill’s descent.
Immediate Effects and Potential Problems
When a pill feels stuck, common sensations include discomfort, a feeling of a lump in the throat, or mild pain. This sensation often arises because the pill has momentarily lodged in the esophagus, not the airway, and usually resolves within 30 to 60 minutes. A pill remaining lodged can cause irritation to the esophageal lining.
If a pill dissolves while stuck, it can lead to inflammation, known as pill-induced esophagitis. Symptoms include chest pain, difficulty swallowing, or a burning sensation. Prolonged contact with certain medications can cause ulceration or, in rare cases, perforation of the esophageal wall.
Tips for Safe Swallowing
To help prevent pills from getting stuck, always take them with an adequate amount of water. Drinking water before, during, and after placing the pill in the mouth can ensure the throat is well-moistened. Maintaining proper posture, such as sitting or standing upright, allows gravity to assist the pill’s passage. Remaining upright for at least 30 minutes after taking pills is also recommended.
Specific techniques can improve swallowing. The “pop bottle” method involves placing a tablet on the tongue and sealing lips around a narrow-necked bottle to suck water, which helps dense tablets. For capsules, the “lean forward” technique involves taking a sip of water, tilting the chin towards the chest, and then swallowing.
If swallowing difficulties persist, discuss alternative medication forms, such as liquids or chewables, with a healthcare provider. If a pill feels stuck, drinking more water or eating soft food like applesauce can help dislodge it. Seek medical attention if swallowing problems are frequent, severe, or accompanied by symptoms like coughing, choking, or chest pain.