The feeling of having a lump in your throat when you swallow is actually quite common. To determine what causes a lump in the throat and what course of action to take, it's helpful to first find out if it's an actual lump or a "phantom" lump. Read on to learn more.
What are "Phantom Lumps"?
Sometimes one can feel a lump in their throat without there being the actual presence of a lump. This is called globus pharynges, or more commonly known as globus sensation and is one of the main causes. With globus sensation, the feeling of a lump in the throat can come and go. It is usually felt in the front of the neck and can move up and down. Globus sensation is not considered a serious medical condition and is not often associated with pain. Instead, in most cases, patients complain that the sensation is merely an annoyance.
If the feeling of having a lump in your throat lasts more than a few days to a week, medical attention should be sought to determine the exact cause.
While the actual cause of globus sensation is unknown, some specialists believe it is caused by a problem with the muscles in the throat used for swallowing. Researchers also believe that acid reflux may play a role. A number of things can trigger globus sensation including smoking and an excess of mucus running down the back of the throat.
Consider taking the following steps to help alleviate the feeling of having a lump in your throat:
- Stop smoking
- Seek treatment for acid reflux or post-nasal drip
- Physiotherapy on the muscles around the throat from a speech language therapist
- Seek treatment for anxiety and depression
What are lumps in the throat?
If the sensation of having a lump in one's throat does not go away after a few days to a week, there is a possibility that there is an actual lump in the area. Medical attention should be sought. A number of serious medical disorders such as symptomatic diffuse esophageal spasm, GERD, or skeletal muscle disorders can cause the feeling of having a lump in one's throat. A throat lump could also be caused by something as serious as throat cancer, but can also be nothing serious. Remain calm until you meet with your physician for an official diagnosis.
Symptoms of throat cancer:
- Swelling or lumps in the neck
- Hoarseness of voice
- Sore throat that does not improve even with medication
- Difficulty swallowing
- Coughing up blood
An actual lump in the throat can also be caused by a swollen lymph node that has become infected. A doctor should always be consulted to determine the exact cause and seriousness of the lump.
