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How To Avoid Gagging While Brushing?
Question: I've been having excessive gagging,it occurs when I'm brushing my teeth,or if I attempt to hold something in my mouth ex. mouthwash, I can see or smell somethin that will make me gagg easily. I'm 43, single, not sexually active...PHM: HTN,DMII,PCOS
Hi,
Thank you for your query.
1. A gag reflex is a protective reflex for the airway.
2. There is no specific treatment for a hyperactive gag reflex.
3. If this is a recent onset overactive gag reflex, acid reflux, allergy and / or a post nasal drip of phlegm may make the tongue and throat more sensitive.
4. Diabetes and hypertension may also cause nerve damage in the long run, leading to an excessive gag. Stress worsens the symptoms.
5. You may attempt to de-sensitise the trigger areas in the oral cavity by progressively longer stimulation with a tongue cleaner brush.
6. Relaxation, breathing through your nose, local anesthetic mouth washes, and voluntary suppression will help reduce the gag reflex.
I hope that I have answered your queries. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.
Regards.
Thank you for your query.
1. A gag reflex is a protective reflex for the airway.
2. There is no specific treatment for a hyperactive gag reflex.
3. If this is a recent onset overactive gag reflex, acid reflux, allergy and / or a post nasal drip of phlegm may make the tongue and throat more sensitive.
4. Diabetes and hypertension may also cause nerve damage in the long run, leading to an excessive gag. Stress worsens the symptoms.
5. You may attempt to de-sensitise the trigger areas in the oral cavity by progressively longer stimulation with a tongue cleaner brush.
6. Relaxation, breathing through your nose, local anesthetic mouth washes, and voluntary suppression will help reduce the gag reflex.
I hope that I have answered your queries. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.
Regards.
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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