Tightness in Chest

So about an hour ago, I was taking my daily meds.  3 caplets.  I've never had a problem taking them in the past. After I swallow number 3, I feel a tightness in my chest.  It didn't last too long...3 minutes maybe...and then it subsided.  It was painful, mind you, but nothing I needed to call Dr. G over. These aren't huge pills...they're about the size of a tylenol caplet (if you've ever seen one of those).  I take a sip of water with each one and since surgery  and wait about 15 seconds between pills.  I've been good about not throwing down all three at a time. Any suggestions as to why it felt so tight today?  Is this something I'm going to need to get used to? Thank you, Cathy

Yes! One of the other pills could have been lodged in sideways around the stoma - preventing the other to go down - so the pressure built up, probably along with some of that saliva that is produced when things get stuck.  It just happens. And, you never know when it can happen.  I would suggest until some more of the swelling goes away to maybe drink some warm/hot tea to help out getting them down, and also helping with the swelling. And yes, you will have to get kind of used to it - because it can happen with food, drinks, etc.  It's just kind of a reminder that it is a tool and we have to take it easy. Welcome to bandhood. Tonja

I was really tight today which was actually a good thing because I've been way loose for a couple of days.  I try to get in a few sips of coffee or warm tea before taking any pills, cause I don't want the silly things stuck.

I agree with everyone - it was probably just a little sideways.  But YEP it can hurt!  Anything can do it - definitely some warm liquid is helpful.  You might need to spread them a little more apart.  You might be a little more tender for the next few days - that happens sometimes too.  Two steps forward, one step backward.  Just know that your pouch will tell you when it isn't happy!  And it is not unusual to have to step backwards early on and go back to soft food or liquid for a day or two. Those darned little pouchies have a personality all their own.  I named mine Grouchy Pouchy for a little while it was so picky!!  Sometimes you have to laugh when all you want to do is cry! Good Luck!! Ruth