You may have experienced a lump in your throat one or more times in your life. It is a common and painless sensation. However, feeling a lump in your throat when there is nothing there can be unnerving and uncomfortable. 

Let’s find out more about this phenomenon called globus pharyngeus. 

What is Globus Pharyngeus?

Globus pharyngeus, also called globus sensation or simply globus, is the feeling of having a lump in the throat when there is none. The feeling can impact a person of any age or gender and it may come and go throughout your life. One factor that may differentiate globus from other conditions is that it does not interfere with swallowing, eating, or drinking. 

What Causes Globus Pharyngeus?

The exact cause behind globus pharyngeus is not known. However, it can often occur as a result of stress and anxiety, and in moments of emotional intensity.

Some other medical conditions which may cause globus include:

  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

  • Postnasal drip (excess mucus in the back of the nose and throat)

  • Cricopharyngeal spasm (a type of muscle spasm in the throat)

  • Enlarged thyroid gland

  • Hiatus hernia (when your stomach bulges up into your chest)

  • Chronic sinusitis (inflammation of the sinuses)

What Are The Symptoms of Globus Pharyngeus?

The most common symptom of globus pharyngeus is a feeling of something stuck in or constricting your throat. Other symptoms may also be present, including:

  • Swelling or itching in your throat

  • A desire to persistently clear the throat

  • Hoarseness

  • Chronic cough

  • Catarrh (a build-up of mucus in the nose, throat, or sinuses)


How is Globus Pharyngeus Treated?

Since there is no single cause identified, there is no specific treatment available for globus pharyngeus. In most cases, globus pharyngeus settles on its own with time. 

You can visit a doctor who can examine you and exclude any other underlying problem. Reassurance that there is no serious underlying problem and explanation of the symptoms may be the only treatment needed in most cases.

Your doctor may suggest management methods based on the ascertained cause behind globus pharyngeus. This includes specific treatment for post-nasal drip, acid reflux, or stress. 

Take care of your throat by staying well-hydrated, avoiding smoking, and refraining from shouting. If you are concerned about globus pharyngeus, or if it is present with other worrying symptoms, consult a doctor immediately. 


Disclaimer: This article is written by the Practitioner for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.