Logan Steele
Feeling a lump in the throat is known as globus sensation, which is usually not a sign of anything serious. However, it can be caused by several factors, including acid reflux, stress, anxiety, and structural changes in the upper part of the spine (neck). While globus sensation typically resolves on its own or with home remedies, it can sometimes be indicative of underlying conditions, such as cricopharyngeal spasms, GERD, or even cancer. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to additional symptoms and seek medical advice if the sensation persists or is accompanied by other warning signs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sensation | Lump in the throat |
| Medical term | Globus Sensation |
| Cause | Increased tension of muscles or irritation in the throat |
| Treatment | Speech therapy, antacids, protein pump inhibitors, relaxation techniques, mindfulness, meditation, yoga, neck and throat massages, supplements, etc. |
| Related conditions | Cricopharyngeal spasm, GERD, thyroid disease, Zenker's diverticulum, etc. |
| Risk factors | Stress, anxiety, acid reflux, smoking, drinking, etc. |
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What You'll Learn
Stress and anxiety
In addition to stress and anxiety, globus sensation can also be caused by other factors such as allergies, infections, stomach acid flowing back up the oesophagus, structural changes in the upper spine, and inflammation of the throat, tonsils or sinuses.
If you are experiencing globus sensation due to stress and anxiety, there are some things you can do to try and relieve the feeling:
- Drink sips of water to soothe the throat.
- Yawn widely or make exaggerated chewing motions to relax and loosen the throat muscles.
- Breathe in steam to help moisten and relax the throat.
- Avoid clearing your throat excessively, as this can irritate it further.
- Practise mindfulness, meditation or other relaxation techniques to reduce stress and tension.
- Drink warm beverages to help relax the throat muscles.
- Gently massage your neck and throat to ease tension and promote relaxation.
While globus sensation is typically not a cause for concern, if it persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. They can advise you on further treatment options and help determine if there are any underlying conditions that need to be addressed.
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Acid reflux
The feeling of a lump in the throat is called globus sensation or globus pharyngeus. It is usually not a sign of anything serious and can be caused by many things, such as an increased tension of muscles or irritation in the throat. One of the major causes of globus is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), also known as acid reflux. When you have reflux, some of your stomach acid creeps up into the oesophagus (the tube that connects your mouth to your stomach). This can irritate the back of the voice box and cause a little swelling, leading to the feeling of a lump in the throat.
There are also some home remedies that can help relieve the symptoms of globus caused by acid reflux. These include sipping water, yawning widely or making exaggerated chewing motions to relax and loosen the throat muscles, and breathing in steam. It is also important to not clear your throat excessively as this can cause additional irritation and make the symptoms worse.
If the globus sensation is caused by acid reflux, treating the reflux can help ease the phantom lump in the throat. However, it can take a few weeks for things to settle down and the sensation to go away. In addition to treating the reflux, people with globus sensation might also benefit from special massages and exercises designed to release tension in the throat. These exercises are often taught by speech therapists.
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Structural changes to the upper spine
The technical term for the upper spine is the cervical spine, and conditions affecting this area can cause globus sensation. Structural changes in the cervical spine region can put pressure on the nerves and muscles around it, leading to the feeling of a lump in the throat. This is known as cervical spine instability, which can cause a choking sensation and episodes of panic due to difficulty breathing.
Cervical spine instability can be caused by excessive stretching of the ligaments in the neck, which can weaken, injure, or tear the cervical vertebrae. This movement can impair nerve impulses, leading to distressing symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, changes in voice, and an inability to breathe properly.
While globus sensation is usually not a serious condition, it is important to seek medical advice if the feeling persists or is accompanied by other symptoms. A healthcare provider can determine whether the sensation is caused by structural changes in the upper spine or another underlying condition, and advise on appropriate treatment options.
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Cricopharyngeal spasms
A feeling of a lump in the throat can be caused by tight neck muscles, a condition known as globus sensation. This is usually not a serious condition, but it can be a symptom of other underlying conditions such as acid reflux or GERD, allergies, infections, or anxiety. Structural changes in the upper part of the spine (neck) may also cause globus sensation by pressing on nearby muscles or nerves.
The exact cause of cricopharyngeal spasms is not fully understood, but several factors have been identified. These include esophageal muscle enlargement, changes in nerve signaling pathways, scarring of the muscle, radiation, trauma, stroke, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and anxiety or stress. The condition has been associated with low levels of serotonin, which can lead to spasms in the cervical area and is linked to anxiety and depression. Cricopharyngeal spasms may also be hereditary or related to long Covid immune reactions.
Treatment for cricopharyngeal spasms typically involves home remedies, changing eating patterns, and addressing anxiety or stress. Simple throat exercises, such as yawning widely or making exaggerated chewing motions, can help relax and loosen the throat muscles. In some cases, medications such as muscle relaxants or anti-anxiety drugs may be prescribed. For severe cases that do not respond to other treatments, cricopharyngeal myotomy surgery can be performed to cut the cricopharyngeal muscle and release its grip.
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$35.91
Allergic reactions to medication and food
A feeling of a lump in the throat is known as globus sensation. It is usually not dangerous but can be a symptom of several health conditions. One of the possible causes of globus sensation is muscle tension in the throat, which can be caused by allergies, infections, or anxiety. Structural changes in the upper part of the spine (neck) may also cause globus sensation by pressing on nearby muscles or nerves.
It is important to be aware of your allergies and inform all your healthcare providers, including your pharmacist. If you have a history of anaphylaxis, wearing a medical alert bracelet that lists your triggers is essential. Drug allergies can be diagnosed through skin tests, blood tests, or oral drug challenges under medical supervision. Antihistamines, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or corticosteroids may be prescribed to manage mild to moderate allergic reactions.
To alleviate the feeling of a lump in the throat caused by allergies, you can try home remedies such as sipping water, yawning widely, making exaggerated chewing motions, or breathing in steam. However, if additional symptoms such as a sore throat, regurgitation, or a palpable lump in the neck develop, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.
In summary, a feeling of a lump in the throat, known as globus sensation, can be caused by muscle tension in the throat due to allergies. Allergic reactions to medication and food can vary in severity and may include symptoms affecting multiple organ systems. It is crucial to be vigilant about managing known allergies and seeking appropriate medical care, especially in the case of anaphylaxis.
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Frequently asked questions
Globus sensation, also known as globus pharyngeus, is when you feel a lump in your throat. It is usually not dangerous but can be a symptom of several health conditions. It is often caused by the tightening of muscles in the upper part of the gullet (oesophagus) and throat.
Yes, tight neck muscles can cause a globus sensation. Structural changes to the upper part of your spine (neck) may press on nearby muscles or nerves and cause globus sensation in your throat. Tight neck muscles can also be caused by stress or anxiety, which are common causes of globus sensation.
There are several techniques you can try at home to relieve a globus sensation, such as sipping water, yawning widely, making exaggerated chewing motions, and breathing in steam. You can also try relaxation techniques such as mindfulness and meditation, and supplements like magnesium may help. If your symptoms do not improve, consult a healthcare professional.
