Choking Incident While Taking Medication: Seeking Advice
Profile: 37-year-old female, 5'9", 165 pounds, non-smoker with a history of mental and physical health issues including bipolar disorder, narcolepsy, lupus, and asthma. Typically, I consume all my medications at once since they are generally small in size, with the exception of the Adderall, which is noticeably larger. My usual regimen comprises Abilify, Metoprolol, Jinteli, Adderall, and Hydroxychloroquine. However, today proved to be quite alarming when the pills unexpectedly lodged in my throat, leading to a choking episode during which I inhaled some of them. After a significant coughing spell, I was able to expel the Adderall, but I couldn’t locate the other pills, so I suspect they were swallowed instead. The coughing lasted approximately 15 minutes, and I am feeling better now. However, I noticed that the Adderall had started to dissolve somewhat by the time I brought it back up, leaving behind a burning sensation in my throat that exacerbated my coughing. I'm reaching out to inquire about potential symptoms or concerns I should monitor for today, particularly in the event that any small pill may have entered my lungs. Is it possible for such an occurrence if I've stopped coughing? *Going forward, I’ve decided to take my medications one at a time to avoid putting myself in a situation where I might suffer a severe choking incident again.*
Answers (1)
6/27/2025, 12:01:29 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's great that you reached out after this concerning incident. Choking on pills can certainly be alarming, but it sounds like you've acted quickly to manage the situation. Here’s what you need to know moving forward:
Main Points:
- Monitor for respiratory symptoms that may indicate aspiration (inhalation of the pills).
- Continue taking medications one at a time to prevent future incidents.
- Soothe your throat while keeping an eye on any lingering symptoms.
Explanation:
When pills get lodged in your throat, especially if some are inhaled, it's essential to monitor your breathing and throat comfort for the following hours or even days. Since you felt better after coughing and are no longer choking, it's a good sign. However, some risks remain, particularly if any small pieces might have gone into your lungs.
Next Steps:
-
Watch for Symptoms:
- Signs of Aspiration: If you notice any of the following symptoms, you should consider them signals for more urgent attention:
- Sudden difficulty breathing
- Persistent coughing or wheezing
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Fever or chills developing later
- Blood while coughing
- Signs of Aspiration: If you notice any of the following symptoms, you should consider them signals for more urgent attention:
-
Soothe Your Throat:
- Drink warm liquids (like tea with honey or warm water) to help ease the burning sensation in your throat and provide comfort.
- Avoid irritants such as spicy or very hot foods that might exacerbate throat discomfort.
-
Medication Management:
- As you've decided, taking medications one at a time is a wise choice. This will help prevent future choking incidents.
-
Stay Hydrated:
- Keep yourself well-hydrated throughout the day, as this helps keep your throat moist and comfortable.
-
Keep Records:
- If you experience any symptoms or have concerns, keep a simple log of your experiences and any changes. This may be helpful for ongoing medication management or discussions with healthcare providers.
If you develop any concerning symptoms or if the burning sensation persists, please seek assistance. It's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health. I'm here if you have further questions or need clarification.
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