Gag reflex happens when your throat contracts when an object comes into contact with your mouth’s roof, your throat’s or tongue’s back, or the tissues around your tonsils. Did you know that gag reflex is actually good for you? But why is that? This is because it saves you from choking and prevents the swallowing of injurious substances. Read more to learn what causes your gag reflex. And to know how to stop your gag reflex.
What causes gagging?
A person may experience a gag reflex when the tissues around the oropharynx become irritated.
Several health conditions are also responsible for gag reflex, such as:
- acid reflux
- stress
- intense physical activity
- bad odors
- anxiety
- Panic
How to stop your gag reflex under normal conditions
Dental treatments
The gag reflex is a common occurrence during a dental visit. If you experience the same, discuss this problem the next time you visit the clinic. Dentists can help you in several ways to stop your gag reflex for a smooth treatment.
If your dentist is taking an impression of your teeth, there are chances that you may have a gag reflex. To stop the gag reflex, your dentist may use a local anesthetic. Moreover, tranquilizers can be used to alleviate stress and anxiety, reducing the occurrence of gagging.
Stopping the gag reflex with acupuncture
Acupuncture is a unique treatment method that uses thin needles to pierce the skin at specific body points.
According to some studies, acupuncture on two certain points can work well to control the gag reflex temporarily.
Point #1
Wrist’s front, 1 or 2 inches below the palm.
Point #2
On the chin, under the lip.
One thing to note here is that you should only go to a licensed acupuncturist for the treatment.
Getting rid of gag reflex with acupressure
This technique puts pressure on specific body points to eliminate certain issues, including pain, anxiety, or illness.
You may have to apply pressure to a certain point on the palm to relieve the gag reflex slowly.
How to desensitize your gag reflex
One way to minimize or stop gag reflex is making your soft palate used to getting touched. To do that, you can frequently brush your tongue.
- Take a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush your tongue. Do that until you feel like gagging.
- Brush that part of the tongue for about 15 seconds
- Daily brush that area until you don’t feel gagging anymore. That part of your tongue has been desensitized.
- Now gradually move the brush further back for a quarter or half an inch and keep moving further and further until you reach the farthest point.
Conclusion
Remember that the gag reflex is a body’s normal reaction to save itself from harm. You can consult your doctor or dentist if you wish to minimize or eradicate the gag reflex. They can guide you through the correct treatments based on your health condition and any ongoing medication.
Call Pasadena Dental Doc at 713.947.0293
BY GARGLE