Lump in Throat Feeling

Have you been having that lump in throat feeling lately? If this feeling persists for some time, it shouldn't be ignored as it is a prominent symptom of several underlying medical problems. It is a very common complaint reported by many patients. In this article, I discuss lump in throat symptoms and its prominent underlying causes.

In medical terminology, 'lump in throat' feeling is referred to as Globus Pharyngis, Globus Hystericus or simply Globus. This throat problem has a long medical history and it has many recorded causes. It is a very common disorder seen in people of almost every age and in both sexes. Many people experience a lump in throat after eating. Let us have a look at lump in throat symptoms causes and treatment in that order.

Lump in Throat: Symptoms

This lump in throat sensation is generally felt below the Adam's apple or your voice box. Here are the prominent lump in throat symptoms to watch out for:

• A constant feeling of having an obstruction in the throat even when none is actually present
• Mild chest pain
• Lump in throat hurts to swallow
• Severe pain accompanied with a clicking feeling while swallowing
• Persistent discomfort and tightness in throat
• Lump sensation moves upwards or downwards or side to side
• Voice problems like hoarseness and huskiness
• In some cases, food is easy to swallow but swallowing saliva creates discomfort
• The lumpy feeling can intensify under stressful conditions

A person may experience any of these symptoms in varying degrees of intensity.

Lump in Throat: Causes & Treatment

Lump in throat symptoms may point towards many causes. It basically arises due to excessive tension in muscles of the throat. A major reason cited is the failure of the cricopharyngeus muscle located at the bottom of the throat. Globus can also be triggered by an inflammation in the hypopharynx or larynx part of the throat. Here are some of the prominent causes which can trigger Globus or 'lump in throat feeling' along with treatment methods:

Cricopharyngeal Spasm
A problem in the cricopharyngeus muscle can cause a lump in throat feeling. This disorder, although harmless, can cause a lot of discomfort. People often get stressed due to the misconception that it might be throat cancer due to the similarity in the lumpy feeling in the throat. The way out is seeing a doctor who can check it for cancer and relieve your doubts as this disorder is the major reason why throat cancer lumps go undetected.

The exact cause of this condition is still unknown. Though there is no absolute cure, its intensity can be lessened with the intake of muscle relaxants like Lorazepam, intake of warm fluids like tea and avoiding stress. The disorder generally goes away on its own over time.

Gastroesophageal Reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux disease or acid reflux disease can be one more cause of a lump in throat feeling or Globus. A reflux is defined as an abnormal flow of the fluids in the body. In this case mucosal damage is caused due to reflux of fluids from the stomach through the esophagus (food pipe). Dietary and lifestyle modifications along with intake of antacids are the most effective treatment methods. There are a number of drugs too that can prevent acid reflux.

Stress, Anxiety or Depression
Another prime reason that has been identified for lump in throat symptoms is stress, anxiety or even depression. The feeling of tightness in the throat arises when people are subjected to excessive stress. The treatment includes lifestyle changes and use of anti depressants.

Hope this article has given you a clear idea of the prominent causes that can lead to lump in throat symptoms. Consult a doctor as soon as possible to ascertain the actual cause in your case, if it stays for long. Minor symptoms like these, shouldn't be ignored and treatment should begin as soon as possible.