Feeling of lump in throat/tightness

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I have been suffering since August having the sensation of a lump in my throat. I have had the camera down my throat. The end result? Acid reflux and the feeling never went away. Yesterday I ate a burger and since then the feeling of having food stuck in my throat has gotten a lot worse. I have been able to eat and drink since then so surely it's not actually stuck? When that happened I had a panic attack. I now limit what I eat and tend to stick to soft foods incase I panic/choke. The sensation never goes away. I can't exactly go back to the doctors either especially as last year they said nothing is stuck in my throat. Anyone else feels similar or advice to help?

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2 Replies

  • Posted

    Hi Maisie,

    This sensation, referred to medically as globus, is a common symptom of anxiety. As you quite rightly say, the fact that you're still able to eat and drink is proof that there's nothing really stuck in your throat. Also, if there was anything serious going on in your throat it would have shown up on the examination.

    Acid reflux can sometimes be caused, or at least made worse, by anxiety. The mechanism is that we quite unconsciously tense our abdominal muscles, which in turn puts pressure on the stomach, forcing the contents upwards.

    I'd advise trying to address your underlying anxiety, but preferably by CBT rather than medication, which can only add another level of complication.

  • Posted

    I have the same. The acid reflux or gerd has caused Barrett's. The change of the tissue in my throat makes it hard to swallow and gives that wierd sensation. Was told nothing to really worry about. Not cancer but needs to be monitored.

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