Something Stuck in Throat

Where there is a history of foreign body lodging in the mouth or throat this can often be removed in the clinic. Occasionally a general anaesthetic is required. The common articles include fish bones, meat bones, food boluses and coins. If the symptom is longstanding it may be part of a globus sensation.

Other longstanding symptoms

Lump in Throat (Globus Sensation, Globus Pharyngeus)

If the swallowing is normal these symptoms do not usually suggest a serious underlying cause. The sensation however can be very irritating. Examination and investigations are aimed at excluding the rare cases where there is an important primary pathology. Reflux is commonly associated with these symptoms.

Heartburn (Acid Reflux)

Irritating acidic juices may back up from the stomach into the oesophagus (gullet) and throat. This is called gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. This may occur at any time, but happens more often when lying down. The most common symptom of acid reflux is “heartburn” due to irritation of the lining of the oesophagus.

Most people do not know that acid reflux can also cause voice problems or symptoms in the pharynx (back of throat). This can happen to someone even if they are not aware of any heartburn, and is sometimes called silent reflux, atypical reflux, or laryngopharyngeal reflux.

Symptoms of acid reflux may include: hoarseness, excessive mucous or phlegm, throat clearing, a sensation of a lump in the throat, sore throat, choking spells, wheezing, or a sense of post-nasal drip. Singers will often notice an increased warm-up time, a sluggish voice (particularly early in the day), or a sense of a “coating” on the vocal folds. In a small percentage of people, more serious problems result, including: pneumonia, ulcers or granulomas of the larynx, vocal fold scarring, or a pouch (diverticulum) of the upper oesophagus.