Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Support Group

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Brain & Nervous System
/ Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Support Group

Aspiration and Swallowing

cloudsintheysky
cloudsintheysky
I have recently developed problems with inhaling saliva into my lungs. Although it is mild, there is a constant sensation in my lungs as if something hasn't completely cleared or like the burning feeling you might get in your lungs after you choke. Does anyone else experience this? Does anyone know how aspiration pneumonia develops? I hope this symptom is nothing to worry about. Any thoughts or experiences?
marilyn4342
marilyn4342
You need to tell your doctor! I experience this as well. My older brother, who also had MS, had a difficult time swallowing. My parents were taking care of him. They put a product in his food called "thick it"' he had the same problems with his saliva and other liquids. He passed away about 6 years ago. He choked on a sandwich and aspirated it into his lungs. PLEASE let your Doctor know about this problem.
cloudsintheysky
cloudsintheysky
Thank you Marilyn. I'm really sorry to hear about your brother. I hope you are doing ok. I will speak to my doctor about it.
mmthlvr
mmthlvr
This happened to me last night in the middle of the night, woke me up.
I've been having this issue of & on over the last few years but it seems to be getting more & more frequent. Everyone swallows wrong once in a while but this is different.
Hugs
Tammy
cloudsintheysky
cloudsintheysky
Yes. It's alarming when it happens. Over the last year, I've woken up a few times to find myself choking. But the last couple of days the sensation of something not being right in my throat has lasted awhile. Thankfully, I think I'm feeling a little better today.
Hugs.
deleted_user
deleted_user
I will just be swallowing saliva & it seems to go down the wrong pipe & i choke, gasp for air.......but thats it!
EPagain
EPagain
My hubby does not have this issue at this point in time..I hope never but this possibility and pain are the ones that scare me.

marilyn4342 did your brother ever go to a speech therapist? Every time I see a post with this topic I try to read it and it seemed like a few others went to speech therapist that had them swallow after every bite.

I think someone else actually had a speech therapist tell them to turn their head to one side?? Please see a medical professional right away to see what they can do for you.

Best wishes,
EP