What is a gag reflex? Well, it is a natural response by your body, in response to when a foreign body enters inside it. You can say that it is a form of protective mechanism in the body. However, it is an issue if this reflex is overactive. So, how to get rid of the gag reflex that works overtime? We will find out in the following few paragraphs.
Having a gag reflex at the back of your throat is pretty common amongst people, more so when they go for dental care. This creates a big issue during the physical examination. In this piece of writing, there are 9 different methods to get rid of gag reflex and associated problems.
What Is Gagging?
It is the opposite of swallowing. When, because of any reason, your gag reflex stimulates – 2 parts of your throat react:
- Pharynx – contraction takes place
- Larynx – propels the matter upwards
How Does A Gag Reflex Work?
When sensitive areas of the throat mentioned above are triggered, a gag reflex takes place. Apart from the pharynx and larynx, the roof of mouth – palate, and rear portion of the tongue is involved. When the stimulus enters, you will choke and feel your throat closing, propelling the object out.
How To Get Rid Of Gag Reflex?
If you want to stop gag reflex, here are some effective strategies you can go for:
Psychological
If you gag on thinking about it, your problems are psychologically related, and so there are a handful of things that you can do for it, which are:
- Hypnosis
- Distract yourself
- Cognitive behavior therapy
Acupressure and Acupuncture
Both of these are suitable methods for treating a gag reflex. Acupuncture and acupressure help in the body’s rebalancing to maintain equilibrium. This happens with needles inserted in designated points on the body.
Medicines – Oral and Topical
Some prescription drugs can help reduce gag reflex issues. Some local anesthetics are applied to the sensitive areas, which quickly numbs them, ultimately helping manage this issue. Antihistamines or sedatives are also helpful.
Anesthesia
The gas nitrous oxide is most often in use for controlling gag reflex during at the time of medical or dental procedures.
Prosthetic
Your dentist may or may not modify how a certain procedure is performed. They can also make a prosthetic for your sensitive gag reflex.
Change in Swallowing Patterns
Swallowing pills is a difficult task for some people. Therefore, you can apply some tips to get rid of gag reflex during pill intake.
- Use a small neck bottle for a better gulp
- Propel your head back
Temporal Tap
There is another way to stop your gag reflex, and that is temporal tap. You have to start a tapping chain in the front ear, then a loose circle in the back of it.
Desensitization
It is an effective method; all you need to do is work with your threshold. Go beyond it. There is one way you can do it; take your toothbrush till the end until you start gagging. Move beyond with every episode.
Practice Relaxation
Calming the nerves is crucial. Practice breathing and yoga for relaxation and halting gag response.
Conclusion
We make sure to cater to every patient’s individual needs; even if you have an overactive gag reflex, we at Pearland Family Dentistry can help you deal with it. Visit us or call 832 649 7344.