Pill Stuck in Throat: What You Need to Know
A pill stuck in the throat can be a frightening and uncomfortable experience. It’s important to understand what causes pills to get stuck, the symptoms to look out for, and how to safely remove them. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about a pill stuck in the throat. In Phlebotomy and Medical Training it is important to understand how to handle the situation.
What Causes a Pill to Get Stuck in Throat?
There are several reasons why pills can get stuck in the throat. Some of the most common causes include:
1. Swallowing pills without enough water
Taking pills without enough water can cause the pill to become stuck in the throat. This is because the lack of fluid can make it difficult for the pill to move smoothly down the throat.
2. Taking pills that are too large
If a pill is too big to swallow easily, it may become stuck in the throat. This is especially true if the pill is not lubricated, as it can become stuck in the narrow part of the throat.
3. Medical conditions that cause throat difficulties
Certain medical conditions, such as a muscle or nerve problem in the throat, can make it difficult to swallow pills. This can increase the risk of pills getting stuck in the throat.
Symptoms of a Pill Stuck in Throat
If you suspect that you have a pill stuck in your throat, it is important to be aware of the following symptoms:
1. Difficulty swallowing
If a pill is stuck in the throat, you may experience difficulty swallowing. This can be a sign that the pill is not moving down the throat and needs to be removed.
2. Pain or discomfort in the throat
A pill stuck in the throat can cause pain or discomfort in the area. This can range from a mild discomfort to a severe pain, depending on the severity of the situation.
3. Coughing
A cough is a common symptom of a pill stuck in the throat. This can be an attempt by the body to try and remove the pill from the throat.
How to Safely Remove a Pill Stuck in Throat
If you suspect that you have a pill stuck in your throat, it is important to follow these steps to safely remove it:
1. Drink plenty of water
Drinking water can help to flush the pill down the throat and prevent it from becoming stuck. Drink a large glass of water and try to swallow it to help move the pill down the throat.
2. Cough
Coughing can help to dislodge the pill from the throat and allow it to move down the throat. If you are able to cough up the pill, make sure to check it for any signs of damage before swallowing it again.
3. Try to swallow soft food
Soft foods, such as bread or applesauce, can help to push the pill down the throat. Try to eat small amounts of soft food and swallow slowly to avoid choking or making the pill get stuck further down the throat.
4. Consult a doctor
If you are unable to remove the pill through the above methods, or if you experience severe pain or difficulty breathing, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. A doctor may be able to remove the pill using specialized tools or procedures, or provide other treatments to help relieve any symptoms you may be experiencing.
Prevention
To prevent pills from becoming stuck in the throat, it is important to follow these guidelines:
1. Drink enough water when taking pills
Make sure to drink a glass of water before and after taking pills to help flush the pill down the throat and prevent it from getting stuck.
2. Cut pills into smaller pieces
If you are having difficulty swallowing pills, you may want to consider cutting the pill into smaller pieces. This can make it easier to swallow the pill and reduce the risk of it becoming stuck in the throat.
3. Avoid taking pills that are too large
Choose pills that are appropriately sized for easy swallowing and to reduce the risk of pills becoming stuck in the throat. If you are prescribed a large pill, talk to your doctor about alternative options or splitting the pill into smaller pieces.
Conclusion
A pill stuck in the throat can be a scary and uncomfortable experience, but it is important to know how to handle the situation properly. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments, you can take the necessary steps to remove the pill and prevent it from happening again in the future. If you experience any severe symptoms or difficulty removing the pill, it is important to seek medical help right away. For more info check out Mayo Clinic. (2021). Swallowing Pills: Tips for People Who Have Difficulty. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/in-depth/swallowing-pills/art-20047475
