I have that happen randomly. It can happen a few times a week, or not for a few weeks. It can happen with hot food, cold food, or just spit. It's as though my throat or esophagus spasms, and maybe that IS what happens.

Sometimes I can just wait a few seconds, try to relax, and let it dissipate. Other times, if I'm trying to swallow food, it's sort of like GERD on steroids. It won't go down or come up, and it almost feels as though my chest is clenching. Or something.

I occasionally experience this also. Yesterday, at our department luncheon, I had trouble swallowing a bite of Italian beef. I was afraid I was going to start choking in front of everyone. I had to swallow a few times to get the bite down. After that I took realy small bites. I need to remember to do this all the time. I have noticed that I am also eating slower than most of the people around me these days.

Hi Kelly.

I am always aware of when it's time to swallow and get myself in position for it. I've choked to many times, not to be careful.

I've noticed that I have to sit straight and looking forward and maybe lower my had a little. If I turn my head to the left or right and swallow, I'll choke, every time.

It's not something that is a constant problem, but MS has made me constantly aware.

Same here. I was diagnosed with 'abnormal swallowing' by my dentist well before seeing any neurologists.

I experience the same as you've described. There's no logic or rhyme/reason to it.

One is to take small bites and chew thoroughly.

Tip chin towards chest and swallow.

Follow with a drink of water.

These are tips I was told after I took a swallowing test; sorry but I cannot remember the exact name of the test.

Take care.

I randomly cannot coordinate my own swallowing. like I simply cannot get my tongue to get in sync with the rest of the muscles, and then I get a lump in my throat that I cant swallow past. so far mine has only lasted a few minutes each time, but scares me! I have swallowed the wrong way so many times. I scare myself to think I may choke.

0357's tips are valid.
i've had some swallowing issues for some time. my dr had sent me for a swallowing eval and she gave me the same tips.

i don't swallow well at all if my head is back and especially if the food is dry, like chicken.

i've learned to always have a beverage handy when eating.

Yep same here, I had the same test and was given the same advise.

Dry foods are also really difficult for me. Especially breads, I love dinner rolls but can't eat them anymore.

Actually on my test they were able to see when it got stuck and had me try to swallow again, then drink water.

I hope you find something that helps.

Gosh, Kel, I'm having the same problem!! I do occasionally choke on things when my swallowing's not right, but lately, when I try to swallow saliva, it's as if I have no ability to swallow at all!! I told my neuro about it, but he didn't seem concerned about it
When it occured yesterday, DH ran and got me a glass of water and made me drink it...after he made me try to relax.
I'm going to try to remember tips given here, esp about having head forward a bit. I'm convinced it's a disconnect from the brain/spinal cord to the throat.

I have bad swallowing issues, but have had help from my PT specialist. If I tip my chin downward when swallowing, that helps alot. Also there is this stuff called "thick-it" that I put in water and juice to keep me from choking on thin liquids. As for pills, I crush them up and put them in applesauce (ask the dr first because you can't do this with some medications)

I hope I helped a little.

Hugs*