A feeling of having something stuck in the throat is a fairly common experience.
The sensation is calledglobus.
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Dysphagia
“Dysphagia” is the term for difficulty swallowing.
There are a number of causes of dysphagia, such as a previous stroke.
A food obstruction isn’t blocking the airway, so its notchoking.
When to Call 911
Choking is a medical emergency.
Signs of choking can include:
First aid should be given immediately while seeking emergency medical attention.
This leads to symptoms such as indigestion or heartburn.
The stomach acids irritate the esophagus.
This can feel like something is caught in the throat when nothing is there.
It can be a nuisance and uncomfortable.
It can also lead people to make a run at alleviate the discomfort by clearing their throat or coughing.
This could, in turn, lead to irritation.
The sensation also is reported in people who have had the thyroid removed.
More research is needed to better understand the connection between the thyroid and globus symptoms.
Globus symptoms may follow.
Inflammation
Inflammation of the upper airways, includingchronic sinusitisand postnasal drip, can lead to globus.
Bone spurs in the cervical spine are one example.
So can surgical procedures, such as head and neck surgery to treat obstructivesleep apnea.
It’s important to note, however, it is not necessarily linked to a psychological disorder.
For example, stress can affect muscle tension in the esophagus that contributes to globus.
Lifestyle Changes
In some cases, lifestyle changes may help with symptoms of globus.
They include:
One reason for globus could be feeling anxiety or stress.
A mental health professional might help determine how to manage this aspect of globus.
Aside from lifestyle changes, treatments might need to be prescribed or recommended by a healthcare provider.
They may look into the airway with a small scope.
Imaging and endoscopy may be used.
In the case of choking, call 911 and seek emergency medical attention.
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