A Lesser-Known Menopause Symptom
Difficulty swallowing or feeling as though your throat is tight is not one of the menopause symptoms people commonly talk about. Because of that, it can completely catch you off guard.
For many women, it can feel quite alarming when it first starts. You may even feel as though you are choking, even though nothing is actually blocking your throat.
Some women describe it as:
- A tight or restrictive feeling in the throat
- Food moving down more slowly than usual
- Needing several swallows for one mouthful of food
- Becoming very aware of the sensation of swallowing
- Feeling as though there is a lump in the throat, even when nothing is there
This lump sensation is often referred to as globus sensation.
Why Symptoms Can Come and Go
One of the frustrating things about this symptom is that it may not be constant. It can come and go, and you may notice it more at certain times.
For example, it may feel worse when you are:
- Tired
- Stressed or anxious
- Eating dry foods
- Taking large mouthfuls
- Eating too quickly or rushing meals
Unfortunately, anxiety can also make the sensation feel worse. Many women become nervous before eating because they worry it will happen again, which can then create a vicious cycle where tension makes swallowing feel even more uncomfortable.
Why Menopause Can Affect Swallowing
Hormonal changes, particularly falling oestrogen levels, are often at the root of the problem.
Oestrogen helps maintain moisture in the mucous membranes throughout the body, including the mouth, throat and oesophagus. As oestrogen levels decline, these areas can become much drier.
This dryness may mean:
- Food does not move down as smoothly
- You produce less saliva
- Chewing feels more difficult
- Swallowing feels more noticeable or uncomfortable
Swallowing itself also relies on a complex group of muscles working together. Even a slight change in muscle coordination can make the whole process feel much more obvious.
At the same time, hormonal changes can affect the nervous system too. Falling oestrogen levels may increase nerve sensitivity, making you far more aware of sensations in your throat that you would previously never have noticed.
What Can Help?
The good news is that there are several simple things that may help ease the discomfort.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water is one of the most important things you can do to support your mucous membranes.
Dehydration can worsen dryness in the mouth, throat and oesophagus, so keeping your fluid intake up is essential. Some women also find it helpful to take a small mouthful of water and swill it around the mouth a minute or two before eating to help lubricate the throat.
Support the Mucous Membranes
Some women find supplements such as Sea Buckthorn Oil helpful for supporting moisture in the mucous membranes.
Adjust the Texture of Food
If symptoms are flaring up, softer foods may feel easier to swallow.
It can also help to:
- Cut food into smaller pieces
- Take smaller mouthfuls
- Avoid overly dry foods when symptoms are worse
Slow Down When Eating
Rushing meals can make swallowing difficulties much worse.
Chewing slowly and thoroughly encourages saliva production and helps food mix properly in the mouth before swallowing. Try not to eat on the go or while distracted.
Pausing between mouthfuls can also help, rather than quickly eating one forkful after another.
Reduce Anxiety Around Mealtimes
Because swallowing difficulties can feel frightening, many women become tense before meals, especially when eating out or around other people.
Taking a few slow, deep breaths before eating may help calm the nervous system. Having a sip of water beforehand can also help you relax and reduce the likelihood of symptoms flaring up.
Understanding the Connection Can Help
This is one of those menopause symptoms that many women do not immediately connect to hormonal changes. The link between hormones and symptoms in the mouth and throat is often overlooked.
But once you understand what may be happening, it can feel much easier to manage and far less frightening.
When to Speak to Your Doctor
Always seek medical advice if:
- Symptoms appear suddenly
- Swallowing becomes painful
- Symptoms are getting worse or happening constantly
- Your mouth becomes extremely dry
- You begin choking, vomiting, or struggling to swallow properly
It is always important to rule out other possible causes first.
Have You Experienced This Symptom?
If you have experienced swallowing difficulties during perimenopause or menopause, what helped you?
Sharing experiences can be incredibly reassuring for other women going through the same thing, and your tips may help someone else feel less alone.
Other articles that may interest you:
Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) problems during perimenopause and menopause
