March 09, 2022
Gagging is normal and a safeguard to the body. But it usually functions within a range of expected parameters. Most people gag when something touches the back of their tongue or mouth in a certain way. People also gag when they encounter something that smells, looks, tastes, or even sounds disgusting. But what about gagging for no reason? In these cases, the reflex may be overactive or impaired. It can impede everyday life and feel quite embarrassing. To help, here is what people should know about the pharyngeal reflex and what they can do to help better manage the reaction.
What is gagging?
The pharyngeal reflex, commonly known as gagging, is a contraction of the throat. It is the body’s natural reaction to prevent choking or the ingestion or inhalation of harmful objects or substances. The intensity of the pharyngeal reflex can range from mild gagging to violent retching. In addition, patients might also experience eye-watering, coughing, or vomiting. And usually gagging is a response to either physical or mental stimuli, or both types of stimuli simultaneously.
What are some common factors that cause gagging?
Gagging can be somatogenic, or a reaction to physical stimuli like touch. In particular, there are five places near the back of the mouth that often trigger the reflex. These areas include the base of the tongue, palate, uvula, fauces, and back of the pharyngeal wall. When stimulated by touch or other sensations, the nerves send a signal to the medulla oblongata of the brain which then signals the muscles to contract and push up.
Gagging can also be psychogenic, or triggered by mental stimuli. Usually gagging is a response to disgust and even just thinking about something can trigger the reflex. This also means certain tastes, sights, smells, and even sounds can activate gagging. Gagging can also be exacerbated by stress and anxiety, which is why so many dental patients seem to struggle with a hyperactive gag reflex.
Why am I gagging for no apparent reason?
Patients who suffer from chronic gagging really should be examined by a physician. There are some medical conditions like multiple sclerosis, postnasal drip, and acid reflux that may be the culprit behind an abnormal pharyngeal reflex. There may also be a physical anomaly, like an oversized turbinate, that can trigger the gag reflex. Best to rule these out before addressing any other underlying cause.
If gagging does not seem to stem from a certain medical condition or physical anomaly, then there is a strong chance that anxiety may be the root cause of the reaction. Many people who suffer from anxiety experience an array of physical symptoms—including constant or unprovoked gagging.
How to minimize or prevent constant gagging
Gagging can be a difficult symptom to deal with, especially when there is no apparent cause. The most important thing is to gather information about when gagging occurs and possible triggers that set off the reflex. Keeping a journal will help keep track of the circumstances and patients may start to notice patterns arising. This can help patients avoid triggers, but also decide which treatment techniques will be most beneficial.
Though gagging is not often a life-threatening condition, it is important to correct or at least alleviate the symptoms. Some sufferers with a hyperactive gagging reflex find that drinking more fluids, chewing on strong flavored gum, eating salty snacks, or sucking on hard candy helps ease the symptoms. But for many, these homespun remedies don’t always work.
It may be beneficial for patients to seek help from a mental health therapist. Many patients with a hyperactive gag reflex rely on relaxation techniques to help ease anxiety and relax the muscles of the body. Controlled breathing techniques can help restore calm and evoke relaxation. Progressive muscle relaxation is another way to engage and disengage specific muscle groups for more mindful control.
Another way to minimize the gag reflex is by applying a numbing spray to the back of the throat. Most pharmacies offer these over the counter, such as a Chloraseptic spray used to soothe sore throats. It works as a local anesthetic and numbs the area so it becomes less reactive to stimuli. Most throat numbing sprays use Phenol, Benzocaine, or Lidocaine to block the nerve endings and help prevent the gag reflex.