It started when I was just thirteen. One evening during dinner, I felt as though something was stuck in my throat. I took a gulp of water hoping it would clear, but what happened next was uncomfortable enough that I didn’t want to finish eating. Before that moment, I had often felt a burning sensation in the back of my throat at night, but like many kids, I ignored it.
My Early Struggles with Acid Reflux and Swallowing
What I didn’t realize back then was that I was experiencing acid reflux, which would later develop into occasional heartburn. After a few visits to the doctor and several tests, the only diagnosis I received was esophageal spasms. It wasn’t a satisfying answer, but I accepted it and moved on.
The Problem Didn’t Go Away
For years afterward, I continued to experience off-and-on trouble swallowing food. I suspected it was related to not drinking enough water during meals, eating spicy foods, or having too much black coffee. Eventually, I made an appointment with a gastroenterologist. After undergoing a Barium Swallow and an upper endoscopy, everything came back normal. I was prescribed Nexium, which I used briefly, but the symptoms faded and I thought the issue had passed.
Fifteen Years Later: Symptoms Return
Fast forward to today, and the problem had returned, but this time it was worse. I began experiencing esophageal spasms multiple times a day. Eating became difficult, and it felt like my throat was shrinking. I wasn’t panicked, but I knew I needed to act.
A Surprising Solution: Magnesium
During a physical with my primary care doctor, I mentioned my swallowing issues. To my surprise, he recommended taking magnesium. I realized it had been a long time since I had supplemented magnesium on its own. My multivitamin contained 125mg, but that likely wasn’t enough, especially given how much water I drink each day.
Why Magnesium Matters
Magnesium plays a crucial role in muscle function, restfulness, and even mental clarity. I used to take a 400mg supplement daily, but I stopped when I switched to a multivitamin. Even though my bloodwork always showed “normal” magnesium levels, I now believe that wasn’t telling the full story.
The Results Were Instant
After taking a magnesium supplement (400mg), I waited about 45 minutes and then had lunch. To my surprise, there were no symptoms. No tightness. No spasm. The next day, I combined my multivitamin with the magnesium supplement again, and had another symptom-free day. The third day was the same. I was shocked. My swallowing issues were completely gone without medications or surgery. Praise God!
Moving Forward
Going forward, I’ll continue to monitor my mineral intake, “especially magnesium”, and stay consistent with supplementation. If you’re dealing with similar symptoms, this might be something worth exploring.
Pro Tip:
If you’re having trouble swallowing or suspect food sensitivities, keep a notepad in your kitchen. Write down every ingredient you consume and log the supplements you take, especially dosage amounts. It may sound tedious, but tracking your diet closely can help identify food triggers and patterns you didn’t notice before. If you don’t find any connections, consider seeing your doctor and a nutritionist for further guidance.
Conclusion
Swallowing issues and esophageal spasms can be frustrating and even scary. But sometimes the answer isn’t medication, it’s minerals. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, consider your magnesium intake and make it a priority to track what you’re eating. And as always, speak with your doctor before making changes to your supplement routine.
Need help making sense of your health journey, specifically the benefits of exercise? If so, check out: Is Exercise Really Good for Your Health?
FAQs About Trouble Swallowing and Magnesium
Esophageal spasms are involuntary contractions in the esophagus that can make swallowing painful or difficult. Triggers may include acid reflux, stress, dehydration, or mineral imbalances.
In some cases, yes. Magnesium supports muscle relaxation and nerve function. A deficiency can lead to muscle spasms, including in the esophagus.
Adults typically need 310–420mg of magnesium daily, depending on age and gender. It’s best to consult your doctor before starting a new supplement.
Yes. Standard blood tests don’t always reflect your body’s usable magnesium levels. Symptoms of low magnesium can occur even if your test results are in the “normal” range.
Symptoms may include muscle cramps, fatigue, poor sleep, anxiety, and trouble focusing. Digestive issues and high water intake may also deplete magnesium levels.
