Differential Diagnosis for Throat Pain after Eating Chips

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Esophageal irritation or abrasion: This is likely due to the sharp edges of chips causing mechanical irritation to the esophagus, leading to pain.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Dysphagia due to food impaction: A piece of chip might get stuck in the throat, causing difficulty swallowing and pain.
  • Acid reflux: Eating chips, especially if they are spicy or acidic, can trigger acid reflux, leading to throat pain.
  • Allergic reaction: Although less common, an allergic reaction to an ingredient in the chips could cause throat pain and swelling.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
  • Esophageal perforation: Although rare, a sharp chip could potentially perforate the esophagus, leading to severe infection and potentially life-threatening complications.
  • Angioedema: A severe allergic reaction could cause angioedema, which is a rapid swelling of the dermis, subcutaneous tissue, mucosa, and submucosal tissues, potentially leading to airway obstruction.
  • Foreign body aspiration: If a chip is inhaled instead of swallowed, it could lead to airway obstruction, which is a medical emergency.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Eosinophilic esophagitis: An inflammatory condition of the esophagus that could be triggered by certain foods, including chips, leading to throat pain and difficulty swallowing.
  • Esophageal spasm: Abnormal muscle contractions of the esophagus could be triggered by eating chips, leading to chest pain and throat discomfort.