Experiencing a Sensation of Fluid in My Throat
At 23 years old, assigned female at birth, with a height of 5'8" and weighing 125 lbs, I've encountered an unsettling feeling in the lower part of my throat and upper chest. It resembles that momentary sensation of having ingested water too quickly, but this discomfort has persisted continuously. Additionally, I've become slightly more phlegmy than I typically am. In an effort to alleviate this odd sensation and the increased mucus, I’ve attempted to cough things up, though my coughs are usually dry, and when they do produce something, there's no unusual color or odor present. Over the past three weeks, I've also experienced more frequent incidents of choking while drinking fluids, particularly coffee. My routine involves sitting at a computer a lot, which leads me to suppress coughs to avoid damaging my equipment—a habit that is likely not the healthiest choice, but I do it nonetheless. My concern is whether the choking incidents are linked to the feeling of liquid in my throat or if it could be attributed to phlegm or saliva issues. Other than the discomfort in my throat and chest area, I haven’t experienced fever, chills, difficulty breathing, chest pain, or any sore throat symptoms. All of my coughs occur voluntarily; deeper coughs occasionally produce a rattling noise or sensation in the upper chest, yet without any pain. The only noticeable symptom is a vague pressure in the lower throat and chest, which doesn’t worsen with deep breaths and might just be an anxiety-related symptom. Regarding my medical background, I have been diagnosed with Marfan syndrome, which has led to a slight dilation of the aorta, measuring approximately 3.6 cm. At age 15, I suffered a spontaneous pneumothorax and underwent surgery to remove lung blebs. Additionally, I was born with a diaphragmatic hernia that was surgically repaired within my first six months. As a child, I also experienced pneumonia, and I've contracted COVID-19 twice. My current medications include Wellbutrin (300 mg), Zoloft (100 mg), Metformin (500 mg), and Irbesartan (300 mg), all of which I have been taking continuously since summer 2025. I don't smoke or use drugs recreationally and consume alcohol sparingly, limiting myself to a maximum of four drinks a month. I find myself questioning whether I should address this condition more seriously. Is this something that requires an immediate visit to urgent care, or is it a situation where simply changing the humidifier’s filter might suffice? Are there any at-home remedies I could try to help alleviate these symptoms? Any insights or recommendations would be greatly appreciated!
Answers (1)
2/6/2026, 5:30:48 AM
OpenHealth AI
You're experiencing an unsettling sensation of fluid in your throat and increased phlegm, along with some choking while drinking, but you haven’t noted any concerning symptoms like fever or breathing difficulties. This situation might be linked to a few potential factors, including post-nasal drip, acid reflux, or even stress-related tension in the throat and chest area. Given your medical history and current medications, it’s essential to approach this situation carefully.
Explanation:
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Post-Nasal Drip: This occurs when excessive mucus from your nasal passages drips down the back of your throat, leading to discomfort and an odd sensation. It often becomes more noticeable in certain situations, like when sitting still for long periods.
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Acid Reflux: Sometimes, stomach acid can irritate the throat and chest, leading to sensations of fluid or pressure. This can also explain the choking episodes when drinking, as swallowing might be more difficult.
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Anxiety: Your mention of anxiety could contribute to the tension in your throat and overall sensations, leading to a feeling of tightness or pressure.
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Irritants and Environment: Being sedentary at a computer might also make you more aware of these sensations, especially if there are irritants in your environment (like dry air).
Next Steps:
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Hydration: Increase your water intake to help soothe your throat and thin mucus. Try warm herbal teas (like chamomile or peppermint), which can be soothing.
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Humidity: Change the filter on your humidifier as needed and consider using it regularly to maintain moisture in the air, especially in dry environments.
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Dietary Modifications: If you suspect acid reflux, avoid trigger foods (like spicy foods, caffeine, or fatty meals) and try not to eat large meals before sitting for extended periods.
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Breathing Techniques: Engage in deep breathing exercises to help relax your throat and potentially alleviate some tension. This could also help prevent choking episodes.
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Coughing & Swallowing Practices: While suppressing coughs can be tempting, try to allow yourself to clear your throat gently when needed. Additionally, when drinking, take smaller sips to reduce choking incidents.
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Observe Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms. Note any changes, patterns, and the circumstances surrounding your choking incidents. This documentation can be helpful if you decide to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare provider later.
When to Seek Help:
If your symptoms worsen—such as experiencing significant pain, difficulty swallowing, or if the choking incidents become more frequent—it would be wise to seek medical advice. Given your medical history, a healthcare provider could offer more specific assessments and ensure that there are no complications related to your previous conditions.
Remember, while these sensations can be unsettling, many people experience similar feelings without serious underlying issues. Take care!
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