We can all agree that morning coffee is an absolute necessity – the warmth and flavor of it can wake us up and get us going on a busy day. Unfortunately, some of us have experienced the feeling of nausea or a burning sensation in our throats after we sip on our morning cup of joe. While it can be alarming and very uncomfortable, know that you’re not alone. Many people suffer from irritation in their throat after drinking coffee, and it’s estimated that 14 percent of Americans have experienced it in different degrees.
The medical term for this is ‘coffee-sensitive dysphagia,’ and while it’s a relatively uncommon condition, it’s not unheard of. Think of it in the same way people are affected by other food allergies; only in this case it’s not about their bodies rejecting the caffeine, but more about their throat’s inability to handle it. So what exactly causes this to happen?
The most likely explanation is that it’s brought on by acid reflux, more known as GERD. Coffee contains high levels of acids, and when we drink it, these can cause our stomach acid to rise up and into our throats. This acid reflux can cause burning sensations and general discomfort. In addition, although not everyone with coffee-sensitive dysphagia has GERD, many people with the condition experience difficulty in swallowing, because the burn makes it hard for them to swallow.
Dr. Richard Tooker, MD, a gastroenterologist in New York City explains, “Coffee is naturally acidic, and it can aggravate stomach acid, which can, in turn, increase the feeling of burning in your throat. And if you have GERD, the symptoms are amplified.”
So how can you tell if this is the case for you? Well, if you can’t pinpoint other causes for your throat burning and if you’ve been experiencing this symptom after coffee consumption, GERD could be a likely factor. In addition, if you are waking up with a sour taste in your mouth, that could also be indicative of GERD.
As for solutions, if you are experiencing coffee-sensitive throat pain after drinking coffee, consider cutting back on the amount of coffee you’re drinking daily. Certain lifestyle habits like having coffee too late in the day, eating certain foods like chocolate or tomato-based items, and smoking can also lead to acid reflux. Therefore, if you have been diagnosed with GERD, making some lifestyle changes and avoiding these triggers can help alleviate some of the pain.
Lastly, while it may seem counterintuitive, drinking milk or eating dairy can also help. Milk contains lactic acid and fat, both of which help balance coffee’s acid levels. In addition, a small amount of milk after coffee consumption can help ease the burning and prevent GERD symptoms.
How to reduce inflammation of the throat
If you have become bloated, have an expanding neck and a chest fullness, it is important to treat these symptoms as soon as possible by taking appropriate medications and/or eating foods that are soothing to the throat. In addition to medication, there are several dietary and lifestyle changes you can make to help reduce inflammation and discomfort in your throat.
One of the easiest and quickest ways to reduce inflammation of your throat is to drink plenty of water. Water helps to flush out toxins and dilute irritating substances that can cause throat irritation, like acids. It’s also important to avoid acidic foods, as these can further contribute to inflammation of the esophagus. Lastly, you should avoid extremely spicy food, as this too can be a source of throat discomfort.
In addition to dietary changes, it’s important to practice good hygiene. Your mouth and throat contain a variety of bacteria and germs, which can contribute to inflammation if left unchecked. As such, it’s important to brush your teeth and tongue twice a day and to gargle with an antiseptic rinse. In addition, these practices will help to keep your mouth and throat healthy, reducing the risk of infection and further inflammation.
Lastly, if you are still suffering from throat irritation, it’s important to see your doctor. They can help to diagnose and treat any underlying issues that may be causing the inflammation. In some cases, they may recommend over-the-counter medications or prescription drugs, depending on the severity of the problem.
Factors that exacerbate sore throat symptoms
While it may seem counterintuitive, there are certain factors that can actually exacerbate sore throat symptoms. One of the biggest culprits is allergies, which can trigger inflammation and make your throat feel even more uncomfortable. Allergens like pet dander, pollen, and dust mites can all contribute to an inflamed throat. It’s also important to avoid cigarette smoke and other environmental pollutants, as these can further irritate an already inflamed throat.
In addition, it’s important to be aware of your stress levels as these can also contribute to throat irritation. Stress can lead to a number of issues, including a weakened immune system, which can make you more susceptible to infection. It can also trigger allergic reactions, which can exacerbate throat irritation. As such, it’s important to be aware of your stress levels and to find ways to manage them.
Another factor that can contribute to throat irritations is dry air. When our bodies lack enough moisture, they can produce mucous as a protective response. Unfortunately, this mucous can build up and cause irritation in the throat, making it dry and sore. You can counter this issue by running a humidifier and making sure to stay hydrated.
Simple home remedies to help soothe throat pain
If you are dealing with sore throat symptoms, you should consider taking steps to alleviate the pain at home. The first thing you should do is to take a warm shower or bath, which can help to moisten your throat and alleviate the irritation. You could also gargle with lukewarm salt water to help reduce swelling, as the salt content can act as an anti-inflammatory.
In addition, chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe a sore throat. It contains chemicals that can help to relax the throat muscles. Aside from tea, you can also use a honey and lemon mixture to coat your throat and reduce inflammation. Honey is a natural anti-inflammatory, while lemon is packed with vitamins that can help to reduce swelling and keep your throat moisturized.
If the pain persists, you should try eating ice chips or frozen fruit. The cold temperature of the food helps to numb the throat, stopping the pain before it gets worse. In addition, try to avoid eating any food that is too cold or too hot as this can further irritate your throat. You should also avoid smoking or drinking alcohol, as these can dry out your throat and cause further problems.
Tips for preventing throat irritation
It is possible to avoid the occurrence of throat irritation, but it takes a conscious effort and lifestyle changes. Some of the most important things you can do to prevent irritation include avoiding caffeinated drinks, acidic foods, and spicy foods. You should also limit your intake of alcohol, tobacco, and processed foods. These substances have been linked to the development of GERD, and they can exacerbate the symptoms of throat irritation.
If you suffer from allergies, it’s important to take steps to reduce exposure to allergens. Consider having a professional clean your carpets and wash your bedding regularly. You should also keep your windows closed during peak allergy season to keep pollen and other airborne irritants out of your home.
It’s also important to give your body enough rest and exercise. Getting a good night’s sleep and regular exercise can help to boost your overall health and reduce inflammation. In addition, it can help strengthen your immune system, making it less likely that you will develop an infection.
Finally, if you are already experiencing throat irritation, it’s important to seek medical help. Your doctor may be able to diagnose the root cause and provide treatment options. If you have symptoms of GERD, they may also prescribe certain medications to help reduce inflammation.
