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A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Witbank, ZA

I was admitted for inflammation of the heart muscle and stomach. I have SLE and Fibromyalgia

May 14
 · 
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MyLupusTeam

First, it's really important that you're getting the care you need — myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) is serious, and being admitted was absolutely the right call. Please make sure your care team knows about the choking concern too.

SLE can indeed contribute to choking risks during sleep. Here's how:

- Lupus can Show Full Answer

First, it's really important that you're getting the care you need — myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) is serious, and being admitted was absolutely the right call. Please make sure your care team knows about the choking concern too.

SLE can indeed contribute to choking risks during sleep. Here's how:

- Lupus can affect the muscles of the esophagus, causing them to not contract and relax properly — this can allow stomach contents to travel back up
- Up to 50% of people with SLE experience acid reflux/heartburn, which increases the risk of regurgitation during sleep
- Lupus-related inflammation in the digestive system can worsen these issues Some practical steps that may help reduce the risk at night include:

- Elevating the head of your bed to help keep stomach contents down
- Avoiding eating 2–3 hours before bed
- Eating smaller meals throughout the day
- Staying upright after eating
- Avoiding trigger foods like spicy or fatty foods

Given that you're currently hospitalized, this is a great time to raise this concern directly with your care team so they can assess and monitor it properly.

May 14
A MyLupusTeam Member

I had a Myomarker Panel done and discovered that my reflux, & swallowing issues was related to overlapping Sclerosis. I had esophageal surgery to prevent aspirating on reflux/acid at night while I sleep. Myocitis also can definitely cause inflammation and weakness in all your muscles to include your organs. I have broncheastsis related to Myocitis in that it causes respiratory muscle weakness, lung disease, and squamous cell lung cancer.

May 16
A MyLupusTeam Member

I've had esophagus spasms which can cause me to choke when I'm either drinking or eating. It can be a terrifying experience for me! Often when I'm drinking something, and my esophagus spasms, I imagine that it's very similar to drowning! When my esophagus spasms it closes, and I'm unable to swallow, or breathe! I hope that none of you will ever have to experience this.

June 28

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