Differential Diagnosis for Choking on Food due to Chronic GERD-like Symptoms
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is the most likely diagnosis given the symptoms of chronic GERD-like cough and choking. GERD can cause stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, leading to inflammation and irritation, which may result in difficulty swallowing or a sensation of food getting stuck, mimicking choking.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR): Similar to GERD but involves the backflow of stomach contents into the larynx and pharynx, potentially causing chronic cough, throat clearing, and a sensation of choking or difficulty swallowing.
- Esophageal Dysmotility: Conditions such as achalasia or diffuse esophageal spasm can lead to abnormal esophageal contractions, causing difficulty in swallowing and potentially a sensation of choking on food.
- Eosinophilic Esophagitis: An inflammatory condition of the esophagus that can cause difficulty swallowing, food impaction, and potentially a sensation of choking due to esophageal narrowing or spasms.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Esophageal Cancer: Although less common, esophageal cancer can present with progressive difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) and may be mistaken for GERD or other benign conditions. Early diagnosis is crucial for treatment.
- Foreign Body Obstruction: Accidental ingestion of a foreign body can cause sudden onset of choking or difficulty swallowing and is a medical emergency.
- Angioedema: A condition characterized by rapid swelling of the dermis, subcutaneous tissue, mucosa, and submucosal tissues, which can cause airway obstruction and is life-threatening if not promptly treated.
Rare Diagnoses
- Rumination Syndrome: A condition where food is regurgitated into the mouth without nausea or vomiting, which can sometimes be perceived as choking.
- Zenker's Diverticulum: A rare condition where a pouch forms in the pharynx, potentially causing difficulty swallowing, regurgitation of food, and a sensation of choking.
- Cricopharyngeal Spasm: Spasm of the cricopharyngeus muscle can cause difficulty swallowing and a sensation of food getting stuck, potentially leading to choking sensations.