Possible causes of chest congestion after eating

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Most cases of chest congestion that occurs right after eating is due to the inflammation that causes swelling in the lungs or airways. In case the individual experiences chest congestion after eating, a doctor must be consulted. If possible, do not self-diagnose or self-treat based on the symptoms alone. The usual causes of chest congestion after eating typically include chronic tonsillitis, pollen-food allergy syndrome and food allergy. It is important to note that the congestion that occurs after eating due to food allergy might indicate a severe allergic reaction that requires proper assessment and diagnosis by a doctor.

What is pollen-food allergy syndrome?

When it comes to pollen-food allergy syndrome, it is basically a condition that is linked to allergic rhinitis or hay fever. This is a chronic allergy condition that can affect an individual every year or only during the spring months.

Hay fever can cause severe sinus inflammation, scratchy throat and eye irritation from an allergy to pollen, mold spores or dust. If an individual is diagnosed with allergic rhinitis, consumption of certain vegetables and fruits can instigate the similar allergic reaction in the body as if the individual inhaled pollen. This will cause the lungs to swell along with chest congestion.

Chest congestion
Chest congestion that occurs after eating due to food allergy might indicate a severe allergic reaction that requires proper assessment and diagnosis by a doctor.

Food allergy

A food allergy is considered as a common issue among children but can also affect adults. The usual foods capable of triggering an allergic reaction include eggs, milk, fish, wheat, soy, peanuts and nuts.

A food allergy is basically a malfunction of the immune system. Once an individual eats food that he/she is allergic to, the immune system mistakes the proteins as a threat and initiates a defensive mode. Antibodies are produced to fight off the proteins. The creation of the antibodies will cause the mast cells to produce high levels of histamine. The histamine is a chemical that helps protect the body against infection. Excess amounts of histamine can cause inflammation in the soft tissues such as the lungs. A usual symptom of food allergy is chest congestion, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness and coughing. It is best to register for first aid training today is a family member is diagnosed with food allergy.

Chronic tonsillitis

Chronic tonsillitis is the infection of the throat that can last for a long period of time. The tonsils in the rear part of the throat can become swollen and overwhelmed with virus or bacteria. Take note that the infection affects the entire throat which causes irritation that can cause further chest congestion. If the individual is suspected with tonsillitis, a doctor must be consulted right away. Remember that complications can occur such as kidney failure, blocked airways and rheumatic fever. An individual who is suspected with this condition must undergo assessment by a doctor.

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