As its name suggests, your gag reflex is one of your natural reflex actions. It's designed to protect you from accidentally swallowing small objects and is a natural way to stop you from choking.

You can test your own gag reflex by touching the soft palate at the back of your throat (for example, by sticking a finger or two down your throat). Unless you are one of the rare people who suffer from no gag reflex, this should produce a natural gag response.

As part of your body's natural defense systems, your gag reflex normally serves you well.

Unfortunately, there are times when it can get in the way instead of protecting you.

For instance, something may have happened in your past that causes your gag reflex to over-react. This can cause issues with everyday routines such as eating out, wearing dentures, swallowing necessary pills and medicines, going to the dentist (fear of the dentist is another issue completely).

Click here for help with your gag reflex problems.

• Breathe in slowly through your nose. Take deep breaths, which will help to calm you.


• If you know there are places you are likely to suffer, try using a nasal decongestant before you go to them.


• Try using an anaesthetic throat spray, such as Vicks Ultra Chloraseptic throat spray.


• Try using hypnosis. A lot of the time, gag reflex problems are more in your mind than anywhere else. Listening to a good hypnosis program can make all the difference and can make your life bearable again.

Instantly download a hypnosis track to help with your gag reflex problems.