Research suggests that 15% to 20% of people have trouble swallowing pills.
It also explains why pills get stuck and ways to prevent this from occurring in adults and children.
Panic causes your throat to tighten, holding the pill in longer.
Illustration by Daniel Fishel for Verywell Health
Relaxing can help the pill move down faster.
If you start coughing, that’s OK.
It may seem unpleasant, but coughing actually helps dislodge the pill.
It may also help to take a few large gulps of water.
Gulping helps open thepharynx(throat) and can help dislodge the pill.
You may or may not feel an immediate effect.
Sometimes the pressure will ease entirely or the discomfort may gradually settle over 30 to 60 minutes.
What you probablydon’twant to do is wait for the pill to dissolve.
This can lead to choking,asphyxiation,and possible death.
the Heimlich maneuver).
To perform the five-and-five method:
If the person falls unconscious, carefully lower them to the floor.
Instead, performcardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)until emergency help arrives.
Why Do Pills Get Stuck?
The main reason pills get stuck is the lack of moisture when swallowing.
Large, enteric-coated tablets are especially difficult to swallow without some fluid to help wash them down.
Other people simply have an overly sensitive gag reflex.
People who are bed-bound or hospitalized may also have a tough time swallowing pills.
Lying down can easily cause a pill to stick to the side of your throat.
Pills are also difficult for people withdysphagia(the medical term for difficulty swallowing).
Its important to stay calm if this happens.
Anxiety can tighten the muscles in your throat and keep the pill stuck longer.
Coughing and drinking extra water can help dislodge the pill.
There are many medical and practical reasons why a pill can get stuck in a person’s throat.
Smaller children, older adults, and people with dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) are at especially high risk.
Speak with your healthcare provider.
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