A 75-year-old member asked:

My wife is woken up with a choking sensation what is the problem?

2 doctor answers3 doctors weighed in
Dr. Farhad Sigari
Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery 22 years experience
Reflux?: Complaints like this can be very well related to reflux. When you lie flat, the acid can come up into your throat. This can cause a cough, phlegm, and the feeling that something is stuck in your throat. One should avoid spicy foods, don't eat less than 2 hours before they lie down, sleep on an incline. If it persists one can try otc reflux meds and see their md.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Farhad Sigari
Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery 22 years experience
Provided original answer
You are welcome :)
Jan 16, 2012
Dr. David Astrachan
ENT and Head and Neck Surgery 39 years experience
Probably reflux: Probably stomach juice coming up into her throat leading to irritation of the muscle that encircles the upper part of her food tube (esophagus). When this muscle is irritated it spasms and leads to the feeling of a lump. If stomach juice gets to the voice box it causes severe spasm and the feeling of choking. She should not eat or drink for 3 hours before laying down and sleep elevated.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Oct 3, 2016
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