The gag reflex is there to prevent us from a foreign object obstructing our airway. This reflex is triggered by an object touching the roof of mouth, back of tongue and/or tonsils. While no one is entirely sure why someone's gag reflex is more sensitive than others, there are some tips on how to deal with a sensitive reflex.
- Use a numbing spray or gel in your mouth
- Squeeze your thumb. Reflexology state that applying pressure in your hand by squeezing your thumb can help ease a gag reflex (see photo)
- Desensitize your tongue, by brushing your tongue every day
- Apply table salt to the center of your tongue
- Hum
- Wiggle your toes; raise your leg. This will keep your mind on something else
- Listen to music
- Focus on breathing through your nose.
