My throat

[amika]

For about a month now I have had the feeling of something stuck in my throat that never goes away, It is worse in the mornings after lying down, When I clean my teeth I have the need to gag.I tried making myself throw up thinking its going to come off but it doesn't change a thing...Even if i try drinking lots of water... I do not have any pain but it doesn't feel normal. Do I have Throat cancer? Is it something i should be worried of?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

The sensation of lump or something sticking in the throat is called globus hystericus. Globus hystericus is a subjective sensation where people feel a lump in the throat. At times, it is associated with difficulties swallowing. It can be gastrointestinal, psychological (Emotional or anxiety disorder) or nerve or muscle problems.

Common causes are anxiety disorder,acid reflux or GERD,biliary disease,cranial nerve compression esp glossopharyngeal and vagus nerve and myasthenia gravis.Throat cancer is unlikely as other symptoms are also present along with feeling of lump in throat. The most common cause is gastro esophageal reflux disease - GERD.

Diagnosis is by fibroptic laryngoscopy. Fiberoptic laryngoscopy also helps confirm the GERD diagnosis.

GERD is treated by antacids, bland diet, small evening meals and elevation of the head of the bed.Pls consult a physician and get yourself evaluated for that.

I hope that helps. Please do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional queries. Kind regards.

[Dr Santos]

Hi,

Cancers that involve the throat, base of the tongue, tonsil, or pharynx usually present with a sore throat that does not go away, cough, difficulty swallowing, weight loss, ear pain, blood-tinge sputum or a lump in the back of the mouth, throat or neck. Are there other symptoms present? You have an increased risk of developing throat cancer if you smoke tobacco and drink alcohol, chew betel quid, or being infected with human papillomavirus (HPV).

It would be best to have this evaluated by your doctor for proper management. Visualization of the throat may help rule out the presence of foreign objects or cysts.

Take care and regards.