10. Choking Sensation: The Startling Symptom in Zenker’s Diverticulum
Ah, the choking sensation, an episode that can jolt you out of your day-to-day routine like a bolt from the blue. You’re mid-sentence, or perhaps enjoying a quiet moment alone, when it suddenly feels as if something is obstructing your airway. You panic, cough, maybe even gasp for air. But what’s happening?
In the case of Zenker’s Diverticulum, this sensation occurs due to the interference of the pouch with the normal swallowing mechanism. The “lump in your throat” isn’t metaphorical; it’s a physical obstruction that momentarily blocks the passage of air, causing you to experience what feels like a choking episode.
What sets this symptom apart is the sudden onset. Unlike other symptoms that gradually build up, the choking sensation hits you unexpectedly. It’s like walking down a familiar road and suddenly falling into a hidden pit; it’s jarring and throws off your equilibrium.
You can’t underestimate the psychological impact of these episodes. The sensation of choking, even if brief, can induce a state of heightened anxiety. You’re left questioning when the next episode will strike, turning even mundane activities into high-stakes situations. It’s the equivalent of walking on eggshells, but the threat is internal, lurking in your own body. (10)
