Involuntary throat closing

[Warrior Chicken]

Not sure what area this should be posted in......

This is something that has been an off and on again problem for me for several years now, but it's not constant so I never bothered mentioning it before. If I'm eating (usually happens at work) my throat will actually close in the first few bites, causing me to literally foam at the mouth ? until I can get the food that's stuck out.
Usually accompanied by coworkers staring, then concerned as I make my best adult penguin feeding baby penguin impression if I can't smile politely and excuse myself with a wave of my hand before it's too late.

I've gotten fairly good at not panicking cuz that makes it worse, but it has gotten to the point that I decline eating when at work....this isn't a big deal but does affect energy levels when my days are 15+ hours and lots of activity. It's like my body says "no way, we are surviving, don't need food or digesting to occur now". It has gotten worse over the last few weeks so I'm prompted to ask here:

If anyone else experiences this, and/or has some advice, please share!

 

[bellbird]

Have you seen your doc about this?

If I'm eating (usually happens at work) my throat will actually close in the first few bites, causing me to literally foam at the mouth ? until I can get the food that's stuck out.

Because it sounds like a pretty major risk for choking.

I do experience involuntary throat closing with a particular recurring flashback, but I don't think I've ever been eating at the time.

 

[Warrior Chicken]

I mentioned it to my pdoc who indicated that it's likely linked to high levels of stress for me. Basically, what I understand is.....reduce stress and it won't happen as much. But in the interim, the only way I can manage it is not eating while at work cuz I can't gauge where my stress level is while I'm at work cuz I'm typically numb.
System seems to be working against itself.

 

[Neverthesame]

I'd suggest bringing one of those meal replacement shakes (Boost, Ensure, ect) to work. Not the best tasting things I know, but better than nothing.

 

[Warrior Chicken]

Thanks @Neverthesame! There’s another reason why the forums are so good. I never thought of that.
It does help to ask about the things that affect us.

 

[Freida]

losing my voice and gagging/can't breath is pretty common when I'm badly triggered but it usually only happens in ts office.

Could it be an allergice reaction? Have you looked at what you are eating when it happens? Or is it just when you are super stressed? If so yep-- those shakes will keep you going LOL
I use carnation instant breakfast with frozen berries and silken tofu -- stick it in the blender and get all sorts of vitamins... plus it taste good!