Tips for Relieving Sensation of Food Stuck in Throat
I’m a 37-year-old woman, weighing 123 pounds and standing at 5 feet 4 inches tall. Since about 2 PM, I’ve been experiencing a persistent discomfort in my upper chest, particularly painful when I attempt to swallow. This situation began after I ate a chicken tender. It feels as though the tender may have lodged in my trachea; however, I didn’t experience any choking at the time of consumption. I’ve been socializing with friends and had three beers, hoping the sensation would dissipate, but it has not—now it’s quite painful and feels like something is obstructing my throat, specifically in the mid-neck region, which intensifies the pain in my upper chest when I swallow. I am not currently taking any medications. My medical history includes the surgical removal of my gallbladder at the age of 11, along with a familial tendency toward high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Additionally, I have elevated platelet counts, the cause of which remains unidentified. What are some effective ways to alleviate this nagging sensation of a stuck piece of chicken tender?
Answers (1)

6/20/2025, 3:30:58 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing discomfort from possible food obstruction, which can be quite distressing. Since you've been having persistent pain in your chest and throat after eating, it's essential to address the situation carefully. Let’s focus on some immediate steps you can take to relieve this sensation.
Main Points
- You may be experiencing a temporary blockage or irritation in your throat from the chicken tender.
- Staying calm and applying specific techniques can help alleviate the discomfort.
Explanation
The sensation of food stuck in your throat can occur when food doesn’t go down smoothly, leading to irritation or a feeling of obstruction. This might be due to the chicken tender, which could be difficult to swallow for a variety of reasons. The fact that you didn't choke at the time suggests it's more likely irritation rather than a complete blockage, but it’s still important to manage the discomfort well.
Next Steps
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Stay Hydrated: Drink small sips of water to help wash down any food particles and soothe the irritation. Avoid large gulps, as they may worsen discomfort.
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Eat Soft Foods: Consider consuming soft or liquid foods such as yogurt, applesauce, or broth. These can help you swallow without causing additional pain.
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Use the "Food Swallowing Technique": If the discomfort continues, try the following:
- Take a small sip of water.
- Tilt your head slightly forward while swallowing, allowing gravity to assist in moving the food down.
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Relax: Sometimes anxiety about the sensation can make it worse. Try to stay calm and breathe deeply. This can relax your throat muscles and may help the sensation pass.
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Avoid Alcohol and Irritants: Since you mentioned drinking some beers, it’s best to refrain from alcohol and spicy or acidic foods until the sensation resolves, as these can further irritate your throat.
If the discomfort does not improve within the next few hours, intensifies, or if you develop severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, severe pain, or inability to swallow, it would be wise to seek medical attention promptly.
Please monitor how you feel over the next few hours, and let me know if you need further tips or if there's any change in your symptoms. Take care!
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