Globus Sensation
Many people feel like something is stuck in their throat, even when nothing is there. This feeling is called globus sensation, or globus pharyngeus. Globus sensation is usually harmless, and common causes include muscle tension, stress, acid reflux, postnasal drip, and throat irritation.
This sensation can come and go, and it often becomes more noticeable during times of stress or anxiety. Health conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), chronic sinusitis, or even minor throat injury can also cause globus pharyngeus. Although it can feel unsettling, it’s rarely a sign of a serious health problem.
Definition of Symptom
Globus sensation is a feeling of a lump or tightness in the throat, even though nothing is actually blocking the airway. People often feel like something is stuck, but exams usually show no physical obstruction.
Unlike dysphagia, which is trouble swallowing food or liquids, globus does not usually affect swallowing. Most people with globus can eat and drink without real difficulty, though the feeling may still be uncomfortable. Common descriptions for globus sensation include:
- Feeling like a lump in the throat
- Sensation of pressure in the neck
- Persistent tightness
The discomfort can come and go, or last for weeks or months. It may feel worse when someone is stressed or anxious. Doctors sometimes call globus sensation globus pharyngeus. In the past, it was called globus hystericus, but this name is not used much anymore.
Key Points
| Globus Sensation | Dysphagia |
|---|---|
| Lump or tightness | Actual swallowing problems |
| No true blockage | May have blockage |
| Normal swallowing | Difficulty swallowing |
Possible Causes/Diseases Condition
Several different reasons can cause globus sensation. Irritation or issues in the throat or esophagus often lead to this feeling. Acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) often cause this problem. When stomach acid travels up into the esophagus, it can make the throat feel tight or lumpy.
Postnasal drip happens when too much mucus collects in the back of the throat. This extra mucus can cause discomfort and a feeling that something is stuck. Thyroid disease, especially an enlarged thyroid called a goiter, can press on the throat and create a lump-like sensation.
Chronic sinusitis can lead to ongoing postnasal drip and throat irritation, which may also result in globus sensation. Sometimes, swollen or large tonsils can cause this feeling, especially in children and teenagers. Trouble with movement in the esophagus, called esophageal motility disorders, can also create a lump sensation. Here is a quick list of possible causes:
- Acid reflux or GERD
- Postnasal drip
- Thyroid disease (goiter)
- Sinusitis
- Enlarged tonsils
- Esophageal motility disorders
Other Non-Disease Causes
Globus sensation does not always result from a disease. Everyday habits and emotional factors can bring on this feeling in the throat.
- Stress and Anxiety: Many people first notice globus sensation during stressful times. Anxiety can tighten throat muscles, making the sensation worse.
- Muscle Tension: Tension in the neck or throat muscles often leads to this feeling. Actions like yelling or talking too much might make it worse.
- Dry Mouth: Dry mouth is a common trigger. Causes include dehydration, some medications like decongestants, or mouth breathing. When the mouth is dry, the throat can feel sticky or lumpy.
- Smoking and Alcohol Use: Smoking and drinking alcohol can irritate the throat, causing dryness, muscle weakness, and sometimes mild hoarseness.
| Factor | Possible Effect |
|---|---|
| Stress | Muscle tension |
| Smoking | Throat irritation |
| Alcohol use | Dryness, irritation |
| Decongestants | Dry mouth |
- Coughing and Throat Clearing: Frequent coughing or clearing the throat can make globus sensation worse by irritating throat tissues.
- Diet and Habits: Eating too quickly, swallowing air, or frequent regurgitation after meals might also play a role. Heartburn can also contribute if stomach acid reaches the throat.
Hoarseness, mild throat pain, and a weak voice are linked to these non-disease causes, though they tend to be temporary.
How It Causes the Symptom
Globus sensation is the feeling of a lump or something stuck in the throat, even when nothing is actually there. This feeling often happens near the bottom part of the throat, close to the upper esophageal sphincter. Muscle tension in the throat can make the sensation worse. Sometimes, the muscles around the esophagus or upper esophageal sphincter tighten, causing a tight or stuck feeling.
Conditions like acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can also trigger globus sensation. Stomach acid can irritate the lining of the throat and esophagus, leading to discomfort. Some people use antacids or medications to reduce this irritation. A simple table about common contributing factors:
| Cause | Example or Effect |
|---|---|
| Muscle Tension | Tightening throat muscles |
| Acid Reflux/GERD | Irritation in esophagus |
| Anxiety/Stress | Heightened body awareness |
| Throat Inflammation | Soreness, lingering irritation |
People often notice the feeling more when they are stressed or anxious. Emotional health can affect how strong the sensation feels. Some people with globus sensation may develop mild difficulty swallowing, but usually, it doesn’t block food or liquid. Speech therapists can help if muscle tension or swallowing habits are part of the cause.
Speech therapy teaches exercises to relax the muscles and improve swallowing. In cases tied to acid reflux, doctors may suggest antacids or other medications. Not everyone with globus sensation needs this treatment, so advice from a healthcare provider is important. Most cases are not linked to serious illness. The feeling is real, but often, there is no physical blockage.
Possible Complications
Globus sensation is usually harmless, but it can sometimes signal other issues. Most people do not face serious problems, but it is important to watch for certain warning signs. Possible complications to be aware of include:
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Throat pain or discomfort
- Chest pain
- Unintentional weight loss
- Muscle weakness
- Anxiety or decreased quality of life
If someone experiences chest pain, pain while swallowing, or starts to lose weight without trying, it may be a sign of a more serious condition. These symptoms can sometimes be related to infections, tumors, or other structural problems in the throat or esophagus.
People with globus sensation may also feel anxious or worried about their health. This can affect daily activities and lower their overall quality of life. In some cases, fear of a serious illness can even make symptoms feel worse. Rarely, tight throat muscles or nerve problems can cause swallowing trouble or ongoing discomfort.
When to Seek Medical Attention
People with globus sensation often feel a lump or tightness in their throat, but it is usually not dangerous. Still, there are times when you should get medical help. Get help right away if you have:
- Trouble breathing or a choking feeling
- Sudden or severe difficulty swallowing
- Ongoing pain in the throat or chest
- Unexplained weight loss
If the feeling of a lump in your throat does not go away after a few weeks, or gets worse, make an appointment with a healthcare provider. You can also visit an ear, nose, and throat doctor for a closer look. Other signs to watch out for include:
| Symptom | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Hoarseness or voice loss | Could signal irritation or other issue. |
| Visible lump in neck | Might point to a growth or swelling. |
| Difficulty swallowing | May suggest an underlying problem. |
If you feel like you are choking, or if food gets stuck while eating, go to urgent care. These symptoms can be serious and a professional should check them.
