Why do I choke on my saliva?
Ask the doctor
Q. Every few weeks, I end up sputtering on my own saliva, often when I'm with others. Does this mean something is wrong?
A. It's telling that you're usually with other people when this happens, leaving you red-faced and trying to catch your breath. That's because choking on your own saliva most often occurs when people are talking quickly, laughing, or turning their head — things they do in the company of others. These actions can turn the otherwise simple act of swallowing saliva into inhalation. Embarrassing, yes, but not harmful.
Other potential culprits? Postnasal drip, such as from a cold or allergies, or dry mouth, which many medications can trigger. Both of these issues make the saliva you do produce thicker and easier to choke on. If dry mouth is to blame, drink more liquids, but also ask your doctor if switching medications might make sense. If none of these approaches helps, or if the choking is frequent, see your doctor to rule out health conditions that can affect swallowing.
Image: © nicoletaionescu/Getty Images
About the Author
Toni Golen, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Women's Health Watch; Editorial Advisory Board Member, 天博体育 Publishing; Contributor
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, 天博体育 Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
