Symptom 8: Coughing or Throat Clearing After Eating
Post-meal coughing or constant throat clearing might seem like minor annoyances. Still, for those with EMD, they’re repetitive reminders of their condition. These aren’t random occurrences or the result of a cold. They’re direct reactions to the dysfunction in the esophagus, making their presence felt after every meal.
One might wonder why these reactions occur. In many cases, it’s the body’s attempt to clear any residual food particles or address the sensation of something being “stuck.” It’s a reflex, an automatic response to the challenges posed by EMD.
The frequent coughing or throat clearing isn’t just physically uncomfortable. It can also become a source of self-consciousness. Imagine having to clear your throat repeatedly during a dinner date or a business lunch. The fear of drawing attention or coming across as rude can make one hyper-aware of every cough or throaty sound. (8)
