You might feel like you're choking when you cough because of a paroxysmal cough, which is a sudden, violent, and uncontrolled coughing fit. This type of coughing can be so forceful that it triggers a choking sensation.
Understanding Paroxysmal Coughing
Here's a more detailed look at why this happens:
- Forceful Expiration: During a paroxysmal cough, you are essentially trying to expel air rapidly and forcefully from your lungs. This can create a sensation of tightness and restriction in your throat, feeling similar to choking.
- Gag Reflex: The intense coughing can sometimes activate your gag reflex. This causes the muscles in your throat to contract, further intensifying the choking feeling. In severe cases, this can lead to vomiting.
- Airway Sensitivity: When your airways are inflamed or irritated, they become more sensitive, and coughing can be more intense, triggering a choking feeling.
Common Causes of Paroxysmal Coughing
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Pneumonia | An infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. |
| Bronchitis | Inflammation of the bronchial tubes that carry air to the lungs, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. |
| Bronchiectasis | A condition where the bronchial tubes become abnormally widened, leading to a buildup of mucus and increased susceptibility to infection. |
| Pertussis (Whooping cough) | Highly contagious bacterial infection causing severe coughing fits followed by a "whooping" sound when inhaling. |
What to Do If You Experience Choking Sensations During a Cough
If you frequently experience choking sensations with your cough, it's essential to take the following steps:
- Consult a Doctor: This is crucial to identify the underlying cause of your paroxysmal cough.
- Treatment: Depending on the diagnosis, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics, steroids, or other medications. They may also recommend breathing exercises or techniques to manage the cough.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help to thin the mucus in your airways, making it easier to cough up.
- Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of irritants like smoke, dust, and strong odors that might trigger coughing.
- Rest: Allow your body to recover. Avoid strenuous activities that can make the cough worse.
Conclusion
Feeling like you're choking when you cough is often linked to paroxysmal coughing, which can be due to a variety of respiratory conditions. It's important to consult a healthcare provider to diagnose the cause and receive appropriate treatment.
