Some medical conditions also cause difficulty with swallowing and eating, so before self-diagnosing with a fear of choking, it is important to rule out physiological causes like certain neurological issues and conditions of the esophagus.
Pseudodysphagia and Eating
People with pseudodysphagia often have difficulty eating solid foods. Anxiety and tension cause throat muscles to constrict, which (somewhat ironically) further increases the chance of choking. In the era of food processors and high powered blenders, it’s not impossible to maintain optimal health on a liquid diet, but over time, those who are less knowledgeable about the various facets of nutrition may experience malnutrition. For this and many other reasons, it’s very important to treat pseudodysphagia as soon as possible.
Pseudodysphagia and the Dentist
Many people who do not otherwise suffer from pseudodysphagia are afraid of choking during or after a dental procedure. Those who have a more generalized fear of choking may find it difficult or impossible to visit the dentist at all. These fears often contribute to a more generalized fear of dentists. Common dental choking fears include choking on saliva, choking on dental instruments, and choking on gauze. Some people are afraid that they will be unable to breathe or swallow while their mouths are numb. Many people find that their fears worsen when the chair is tipped all the way back. In addition, set up a system for communicating your needs to the dentist during your procedure, such as raising your left hand to request suction. While dental procedures are never fun, honesty and open communication make the experience a bit easier for everyone.
Treatment
If simply avoiding some foods is all that’s needed to keep your pseudodysphagia at bay, then there’s probably no need for therapy. But if your phobia is significantly interfering with your day-to-day life, relationships, and profession, or causing distress, make plans to see a mental health professional. With a bit of hard work, there is no reason for the fear of choking to take over your life.
