The feeling of something being stuck in the throat is often referred to as "globus sensation" or "globus pharyngeus." This sensation is typically painless but can be annoying and is caused by a variety of physical and psychological factors.
Common Causes
- Acid reflux (GERD or LPR): Stomach acid backing up into the esophagus or throat can cause irritation and a tight or lump-like sensation.
- Muscle tension: Tension in throat muscles, sometimes related to stress or anxiety.
- Postnasal drip: Mucus accumulation at the back of the throat causing irritation.
- Inflammatory conditions: Such as pharyngitis, tonsillitis, or sinusitis.
- Esophageal motility disorders: Problems with the muscles of the esophagus moving food properly.
- Psychological factors: Stress and anxiety can worsen or trigger this sensation.
When to Seek Medical Care
If the sensation is accompanied by difficulty swallowing, pain, noticeable swelling, unintentional weight loss, or if it persists for a long time, medical evaluation is needed to rule out serious conditions like tumors or structural abnormalities. In most cases, globus sensation is harmless and may resolve on its own or with treatment of the underlying cause such as reflux or anxiety management.
