Throat inflammation from spicy food causing breathing problems? It’s a health risk you should be aware of.

Spicy cuisine like mala, Sichuan hotpot, or extra-hot chili dishes are enjoyed by many—but in rare cases, they can cause more than just a burning tongue. Acute epiglottitis, a potentially life-threatening condition, can be triggered not only by infections but also by consuming food that is extremely hot in temperature or intensely spicy, especially when paired with other unhealthy habits.

What Is Acute Epiglottitis?

The epiglottis is a flap of cartilage that sits at the back of the throat and prevents food from entering your windpipe when you swallow. When it becomes inflamed—due to burns, irritation, or infection—it can swell rapidly and block your airway, making it difficult or impossible to breathe.

Real Case: Death from Hot Spicy Food

Just only recently, a Chinese woman, 26, gets sore throat after eating hotpot, dies 10 minutes after going to hospital. Reported by mothership.

In 2020, 48-year-old man died in South Korea after eating an extremely hot and spicy meal. Hours later, he collapsed and died from acute upper-airway obstruction caused by thermal epiglottitis—the result of hot food burning the throat tissue. PubMed Reference - Kim et al., 2020

Another similar case reported a 51-year-old man who died at home after consuming a hot fish cake. He initially had only mild symptoms but died due to delayed swelling of the throat. PubMed Reference - Kim et al., 2020

Risk Factors to Watch Out For

You're at higher risk of thermal epiglottitis from spicy food if:

• You eat too fast, not letting food cool
  

• You smoke, which weakens the throat's lining
  

• You drink alcohol excessively, which dries and irritates the airway
  

• You already have a sore throat or respiratory condition
  

• You eat very spicy food while tired, dehydrated, or on an empty stomach
  

What You Can Do to Stay Safe

1. Let your food cool slightly before eating, especially hotpot, soup, or fried dishes like mala.
   

2. Avoid extremely spicy foods if you're already unwell or have ongoing throat irritation.
   

3. Eat slowly, and don't swallow large chunks of food without chewing.
   

4. Stay hydrated, and avoid spicy meals when you've been drinking alcohol.
   

5. If you feel persistent throat pain, tightness, or difficulty breathing after a spicy meal—seek medical attention immediately.
   

6. If you’re having trouble breathing due to throat problems, seek medical attention immediately—don’t wait until it’s too late.

Final Thought

Spicy meals like mala may be flavorful, but it’s important to enjoy them mindfully. Don't ignore pain or discomfort in your throat. Your body is trying to tell you something. A little caution can prevent a very serious emergency.

Respect your body’s signals.

Written with Passion by: HappierHomes Admin