Why Does Eating During Pregnancy Feel Like Food Is Stuck In The Chest?

During pregnancy, some women experience a sensation where food feels like it's stuck in the chest area after eating. This can be caused by either physiological or pathological factors such as morning sickness, chronic gastritis, or pharyngitis. Below are more details on possible causes:

Physiological Factors
This feeling is often associated with common pregnancy symptoms and varies depending on the stage of pregnancy.

1. Early Pregnancy (First Trimester): Hormonal changes during the first three months can slow down gastrointestinal motility. Increased levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) may cause nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of fullness or blockage in the chest area after eating.

2. Middle to Late Pregnancy: As the baby grows, the expanding uterus takes up more space in the abdominal cavity, pushing the stomach upward. This can lead to a sensation that food is not going down smoothly and remains stuck in the chest.

Possible Pathological Causes
Certain medical conditions can also contribute to this uncomfortable sensation:

1. Chronic Gastritis: Long-term inflammation of the stomach lining can delay gastric emptying, causing a persistent feeling of fullness or pressure in the chest after meals.

2. Chronic Pharyngitis: Inflammation in the throat may interfere with normal swallowing, making it feel like food is getting stuck.

3. Achalasia: A disorder of the esophagus that affects the ability to swallow, often leading to difficulty moving food into the stomach and a sensation of blockage behind the breastbone.

4. Esophageal or Throat Cancer: Although rare, tumors in the throat or esophagus can cause progressive difficulty in swallowing and a distinct feeling of obstruction during meals.

To help manage these symptoms during pregnancy, it is recommended to eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. Choosing easily digestible foods such as soups, porridge, noodles, and soft fruits and vegetables can aid digestion and reduce discomfort. Foods rich in fiber may also support healthy bowel movements and ease nausea.

If the sensation persists or worsens, or if there are additional concerning symptoms such as weight loss, pain, or vomiting, it's important to seek medical attention promptly. Identifying and treating any underlying condition early can help protect both maternal and fetal health.