Persistent Throat Discomfort: Is It a Sign of Serious Health Issues?

Sensation of a foreign body in the throat?

Last year, I went for traditional Chinese massage due to a lower back strain.
During the massage, it was very painful, and I gritted my teeth to endure it.
After the session, I noticed that when I drank water or swallowed, I could feel cartilage in my throat, and there was a crackling sound as the water passed through the cartilage.
I went to a clinic for an ultrasound of my throat, but nothing unusual was found.
After some time, the sensation while drinking water became less pronounced, but nearly a year later, the feeling of cartilage still persists.
I am worried that this might eventually lead to something like esophageal cancer or other pathological changes.

Ban, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/22

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, the situation you described may be chronic pharyngitis.
It is recommended to seek medical attention for a laryngoscopy to rule out any masses, as well as to consider medication treatment.
If you need to check for esophageal cancer, an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is necessary.
In addition to medication, please observe the following daily precautions: avoid lying down for two hours after eating, and refrain from coffee, tea, cigarettes, alcohol, fried foods, and spicy foods, as these can help improve symptoms.
Wishing you safety and good health.

Reply Date: 2021/07/22

More Info

Persistent throat discomfort can be concerning, especially when it has lasted for an extended period. However, it's essential to approach this situation with a clear understanding of potential causes and the likelihood of serious health issues.

From your description, it seems that the discomfort began after a painful experience during a chiropractic manipulation. This could suggest that the sensation you are experiencing might be related to muscle tension or irritation in the throat area, possibly exacerbated by the way you held your jaw during the procedure. The sound you hear when swallowing could be related to the movement of tissues in your throat, which may have become sensitive or tense due to the initial trauma.

It's important to note that while persistent throat discomfort can sometimes be a symptom of serious conditions, such as esophageal cancer, these cases are relatively rare, especially in younger individuals without other risk factors. The fact that you have already undergone an ultrasound examination without any significant findings is reassuring. Ultrasound is a useful tool for assessing soft tissue structures, but it may not always capture every potential issue, particularly those deeper in the esophagus or related to functional disorders.

Here are some considerations and recommendations based on your situation:
1. Muscle Tension and Stress: The discomfort you feel may be related to muscle tension in the throat or jaw area. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate these symptoms. Techniques such as relaxation exercises, deep breathing, and gentle neck stretches may help alleviate some of the tension.

2. Hydration and Diet: Ensure you are well-hydrated, as dehydration can lead to throat discomfort. Additionally, consider your diet; spicy or acidic foods can irritate the throat. Keeping a food diary may help identify any triggers.

3. Follow-Up with a Specialist: If the discomfort persists or worsens, it may be beneficial to consult an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can perform a more thorough examination, including a laryngoscopy, which allows for a direct view of the throat and vocal cords.

4. Consider Functional Disorders: Sometimes, throat discomfort can be related to functional disorders such as globus sensation, where individuals feel a lump in their throat without any physical obstruction. This condition is often linked to anxiety and stress.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any additional symptoms that may arise, such as difficulty swallowing, changes in voice, or weight loss. These could provide important clues for your healthcare provider.

6. Avoid Self-Diagnosis: While it's natural to worry about serious conditions, self-diagnosing can lead to unnecessary anxiety. Trust the medical professionals who evaluate your symptoms and provide guidance based on their expertise.

In conclusion, while persistent throat discomfort can be alarming, it is often related to less serious causes such as muscle tension or irritation. Maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider and seeking further evaluation if necessary can help address your concerns and lead to appropriate management. Remember, early intervention is key, and being proactive about your health is always a wise approach.

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