It Feels Like Someone Choking Me: Understanding the Sensation and Possible Causes
Feeling like someone is choking you can be an alarming and distressing experience. It used to happen to me, so I know it can cause a great deal of anxiety and fear, leaving you searching for answers.
In this article, we will explore the sensation of feeling like someone is choking you and delve into the possible causes behind this unsettling feeling. We will address common questions and concerns related to this experience, providing you with valuable insights and information.
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What Does It Feel Like When Someone Is Choking Me?
The feeling of being choked can vary from person to person, but it often involves a sensation of pressure or constriction around the neck.
Individuals may describe it as a tightness, squeezing, or as if a hand or object is blocking their airway. Maybe even as having something stuck in the throat. This sensation can be accompanied by difficulty breathing, swallowing, or speaking.
It is important to note that feeling like someone is choking you can be subjective and may not always indicate a physical presence.
The Possible Causes:
Now there may be several reasons for why you might experience this feeling. But lets explore them together:
Poor posture
I know what you are thinking, how could poor posture cause the sensation of being choked? Well, let me tell you why.
When our body adjusts to a forward center of mass posture, such as kyphosis or forward head posture. Our muscles in the throat become tight or shorter. Especially the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
The sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle is the largest muscle in the front of your neck. It activates when you:
- Turn your head to face left or right.
- Tilt your head toward your right or left shoulder.
- Tilt your head backward, chin up.
- Tilt your head forward, chin to chest.
Your SCM muscle also helps you:
- Maintain your posture. It helps stabilize your neck even when you’re not moving.
- Breathe. It works with other neck muscles to lift your breastbone and collarbone when you inhale. The movement creates space for your lungs to take in air.
Consequences of a Tight SCM Muscle
When the SCM muscle becomes tight, it can lead to a condition called torticollis or a wry neck. This tightness is common in many individuals and may be associated with a forward head posture, inefficient breathing patterns, headaches, and neck stiffness. Regular stretching of the SCM muscle can help alleviate these issues and promote overall neck health.
Having poor posture place an increased strain and tension on the SCM, causing the muscle to be pulled and consequently contracted to relax.
Which in turn will feel like someone is choking you.
Anxiety and Panic Attacks
Anxiety and panic attacks can manifest in various ways, and one common symptom is the feeling of being choked. During moments of heightened anxiety, the body's stress response is activated, leading to a range of physical sensations, including a tightening or constricting feeling in the throat. This can create the perception of someone choking you, even though there is no external force causing it..
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Individuals who have experienced trauma, particularly incidents involving violence or assault, may develop symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Among the many distressing symptoms associated with PTSD, the sensation of being choked or strangled can occur as part of intrusive thoughts or flashbacks related to the traumatic event. This sensation can be triggered by reminders of the trauma or occur spontaneously.
Acid Reflux and GERD
Acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are conditions characterized by the regurgitation of stomach acid into the esophagus. This can cause a burning sensation in the chest, known as heartburn, and in some cases, a feeling of tightness or choking in the throat. The acid reflux-related symptoms can be exacerbated by lying down or consuming certain foods, leading to a sensation akin to being choked.
Other Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions can also contribute to the feeling of someone choking you. These conditions may include:
- Globus Pharyngeus: Also known as "globus sensation," this condition causes the persistent sensation of a lump in the throat, making it feel like someone is choking you.
- Throat Muscle Spasms: Muscle spasms in the throat or esophagus can lead to feelings of constriction and choking.
- Allergic Reactions: Severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, can cause swelling in the throat, leading to difficulty breathing and a sensation of choking.
- Thyroid Issues: Certain thyroid disorders can cause swelling or enlargement of the thyroid gland, resulting in throat discomfort and the perception of being choked.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can feeling like someone is choking me be a symptom of a heart condition?
A: While it is possible for heart-related issues to cause sensations in the chest and throat, feeling like someone is choking you is not typically associated with heart conditions. It is important to consult with a medical professional to rule out any potential cardiac concerns.
Q: Are there any self-help techniques to alleviate the feeling of being choked?
A: If the sensation of being choked is related to anxiety or panic attacks, practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and progressive muscle relaxation may help alleviate symptoms. However, it is crucial to seek professional help for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Q: Should I be concerned if I frequently experience the sensation of being choked?
A: Frequent episodes of feeling like someone is choking you should not be ignored. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider who can evaluate your symptoms, conduct a thorough examination, and determine the underlying cause.
Q: Can medications cause the feeling of being choked?
A: Certain medications, such as those used for high blood pressure or gastroesophageal reflux disease, may have side effects that include throat discomfort or a choking sensation. If you suspect your medication is causing these symptoms, consult your healthcare provider for a possible adjustment or alternative.
Q: Is feeling like someone is choking me a common symptom of anxiety?
A: Yes, feeling choked or having a tightness in the throat is a common symptom experienced by individuals with anxiety. Anxiety can manifest in various physical symptoms, including the sensation of being choked.
Q: When should I seek immediate medical attention for feeling choked?
A: If you experience sudden, severe difficulty breathing, chest pain, or an inability to swallow, seek immediate medical attention, as these symptoms may indicate a medical emergency.
Conclusion
Feeling like someone is choking you can be a distressing experience, but it is crucial to remember that there are various potential causes for this sensation. Anxiety, sleep paralysis, PTSD, acid reflux, and other medical conditions can contribute to this feeling. If you frequently experience the sensation of being choked, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Remember, addressing the underlying cause is key to finding relief and managing this unsettling sensation.
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