That was one of my early signs of CM...I constantly felt like there was something in my throat and like someone had their hands around and were softly strangling me (if that makes sense). Along with that I had swallowing difficulties, neck and arm pain. That went on for several months before I showed other symptoms. I also found out that I had Hashimotos (autoimmune thyroid disease) which can also cause the same feeling. I am not sure which was really the culprit b/c I had surgery and then got on the right amount of thyroid meds fairly soon after....so you may want to get your thyroid checked just in case. I know that swallowing difficulties are a common factor of CM though too and with that I got these weird throat spasms, like my throat was closing off for a second. My throat issues come and go now too.
*Stormy*
Bren:
My husband (who is a lymie) also suffers with throat problems. Lump in throat, diffcult swallowing.. found that when this occurs his lymphnodes are swollen as well. Common in Chronic Fatigue Symdrom.
His throat issues do come and go.
Hi...Pam gave a few suggestions that can be the reason for ur issues...but, it is also possible if u have GERD or acid reflux (which is also associated with Chiari) to be the reason u r having these issues.
U may want to look at the list of foods to avoid and foods that r safe on the GERD forum in the Health Pages-
http://www.medhelp.org/forums/GERD-Acid-Reflux/show/333?camp=msc
U may also want to elevate the head of ur bed too as it helps those with GERD.
"selma"
Hello! Are you also having issues when you eat or drink? Swallowing issues can be a symptom of CM. I am not sure about the increase in saliva... unless maybe you are sick on your stomach. I have at times had that feeling that increase in saliva when I was nauseaous. What medicines are you on? Some meds can cause something called laryngeal spasms. It wouldnt surprise me if Chiari itself couldnt cause it as I know it can cause esophageal spasms according to my ENT due to vagus nerve compression at the brain stem. Ok sounds like I am rambling... I hope it helps.
Pam