Coughing After Eating

Chronic coughing that occurs suddenly after eating can by caused by several different factors. Although the cough may appear to be only a minor nuisance, any persistent cough, especially one that worsens over time, should be examined by a doctor because a serious health condition could be the underlying cause.

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic lung disease caused by inflammation of the airways. Some people with asthma experience increased symptoms, such as coughing, after eating particular foods or food additives. Common triggers include wheat, milk, peanuts, eggs, soy, tree nuts, fish and shellfish, according to the Oklahoma State Department of Health.

Aspiration Pneumonia

Aspiration pneumonia occurs when liquids, foods or stomach substances accidentally enter the the lungs and cause an infection. Usually, as soon as one of these substances enters the airway, immediate coughing prevents it from reaching the lungs. However, sometimes foreign substances do reach the lungs, which can cause an infection and buildup of mucus, leading to pneumonia. The infection can persist without diagnosis and result in increased coughing after meals.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is caused by frequent backwash of large volumes of stomach digestive juices into the esophagus. The most common symptoms of GERD are heartburn and acid indigestion. However, in some cases, GERD may result in chronic coughing, particularly after eating, that occurs for no obvious reason, according to Harvard Medical School's HealthBeat Newsletter.

Dysphagia

Dysphagia is a disorder characterized by difficulty in swallowing. There are numerous different causes that can result in dysphagia, including blockages and inflammation in the throat or neurologic and muscular complications. Dysphagia often causes feelings of food being stuck in the throat or pain and pressure in the chest after eating, which is often accompanied by an increase in coughing, explains MedlinePlus.

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