the Sensation of a Foreign Object in the Throat

Sensation of a foreign body in the throat?

For the past few weeks, I have been troubled by a persistent sensation in my throat, as if there is something stuck.
I feel the urge to cough but cannot, and I want to vomit but cannot do that either; the only relief I find is through occasional burping.
Swallowing is normal and painless, but it is still quite uncomfortable.
Due to family history, I am prone to allergies and post-nasal drip.
Could this discomfort be related to post-nasal drip? Occasionally, when I eat too much, I experience a slight regurgitation of food into my throat.
I have searched online for answers but found alarming information that raised my fears about possibly having cancer, which is why I am reaching out here.
What should I do? Are there any specific things I should be aware of? Is an endoscopy necessary? Thank you for taking the time to respond, and I appreciate your help!

A-Hong, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/25

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if you feel a sensation of a foreign body in your throat, it is commonly associated with chronic irritants such as post-nasal drip due to allergies, smoking, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
It is advisable to drink plenty of water and avoid spicy foods, as well as reduce the intake of coffee, tea, and desserts.
If the symptoms persist without improvement, it is recommended to consult an otolaryngologist or a gastroenterologist for further evaluation.
Wishing you safety and health, Ministry of Health and Welfare Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2020/02/25

More Info

The sensation of having a foreign object in the throat, often described as a "globus sensation," can be quite distressing and is a common complaint among individuals. This sensation can arise from various causes, and your symptoms suggest that it may be related to post-nasal drip, especially considering your family history of allergies and nasal issues.
Post-nasal drip occurs when excess mucus accumulates in the back of the throat, often due to allergies, sinus infections, or other upper respiratory conditions. This can lead to irritation and the sensation of something being stuck in the throat. The fact that you are not experiencing pain while swallowing and that your swallowing function appears normal is a positive sign. However, the discomfort you feel can be exacerbated by factors such as eating too much or too quickly, which can lead to a feeling of fullness or pressure in the throat.

It is essential to consider other potential causes of your symptoms as well. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can also contribute to a sensation of a lump in the throat. In GERD, stomach acid can irritate the esophagus and throat, leading to discomfort. Additionally, anxiety and stress can manifest as physical symptoms, including the sensation of a lump in the throat.
Given your concerns about the possibility of a more serious condition, such as cancer, it is understandable that you are feeling anxious. However, it is important to remember that the sensation you are experiencing is often benign and related to less serious conditions. That said, if your symptoms persist or worsen, it would be prudent to seek further evaluation from a healthcare professional.

An endoscopy may be recommended if your symptoms do not improve with conservative measures or if there are other concerning signs. This procedure allows a doctor to visualize the throat and esophagus directly, helping to rule out any significant abnormalities.
In the meantime, here are some strategies you can consider to alleviate your symptoms:
1. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help thin mucus and reduce post-nasal drip.

2. Manage Allergies: If you have known allergies, consider using antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and mucus production.

3. Avoid Irritants: Stay away from smoke, strong odors, and other irritants that can exacerbate throat discomfort.

4. Dietary Adjustments: Eating smaller meals and avoiding spicy or acidic foods can help if GERD is a concern.

5. Relaxation Techniques: Stress management through techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help reduce anxiety-related symptoms.

If your symptoms persist despite these measures, or if you experience any new symptoms such as significant weight loss, difficulty swallowing, or persistent pain, it is essential to follow up with a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They can provide you with a tailored treatment plan based on the underlying cause of your symptoms. Remember, early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so do not hesitate to seek help if needed.

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