What Is Globus Sensation?
Globus sensation is that feeling of having a lump in your throat, even though there’s nothing there. The sensation never interferes with eating or drinking and comes and goes. While annoying, the sensation itself is rarely dangerous. It usually goes away on its own.
The symptom is linked to several health conditions, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), oesophageal issues, and chronic sinusitis. It may also flare up during periods of stress, as muscle tension around the throat can heighten the sensation. In many cases, understanding the underlying cause is the key to relieving it.
What Is Globus Sensation?
Globus sensation (also known as globus pharyngeus or globus hystericus) is the feeling of having a lump in your throat despite nothing being there. Because there’s no real anatomical problem, the symptom is usually not harmful and resolves on its own.
It should not be confused with dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) or odynophagia (painful swallowing). Globus sensation is never painful. If you have either of the other two symptoms, it’s important to see a medical professional.
That being said, if the globus sensation persists or recurs, it’s sensible to get checked. It could be the sign of an underlying condition.
Symptoms of Globus Sensation
Globus sensation shouldn’t be painful, but it’s often persistent. While globus itself is harmless, the feeling can be unsettling and may be linked to other underlying conditions.
Symptoms directly caused by globus:
Persistent feeling of a lump or tightness in the throat
Sensation that something is stuck, despite a clear throat
Throat pressure that comes and goes
Mild throat discomfort without true pain
Need to swallow more often
Sensation that swallowing might be difficult (but it isn’t)
Improvement of symptoms when eating or drinking
Symptoms from conditions that may cause globus:
Heartburn or acid reflux (GERD/LPR)
Frequent throat clearing
Postnasal drip or congestion
Hoarse or strained voice
Chronic cough
Dry throat
Anxiety or stress-related throat tension
Hoarseness is not a symptom of globus itself. If your voice is persistently hoarse, you should seek medical assessment, as this usually indicates an underlying condition rather than globus.
What Causes Globus Sensation?
The exact cause of globus sensation is unknown.
Scientists believe the symptom is a problem in the coordination of the muscles involved in swallowing. These muscles must work in sync and in a particular sequence to work effectively. If someone’s swallowing muscles are not fully relaxed, the sensation of a lump may occur. But when food is swallowed, it stimulates the muscles, leading to correct relaxation.
Acid reflux may contribute to globus sensation, as it can affect the relaxation of the muscles around the throat. Stress and anxiety are also potential factors, while fatigue can make the feeling more noticeable.
Lastly, postnasal drip, an excess of mucus running down the back of the throat, may also make the sensation worse.
Diagnosis and Investigation
Globus pharyngeus alone doesn’t require any investigation. It usually resolves itself. However, if it persists or is connected to other symptoms, investigations may be necessary to determine the underlying cause.
Usually, if specialist care is required, you will be referred to an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist. But that depends on the underlying problem. For example, if your symptoms are related to GERD, assessments for acid reflux might be required. This can include 24-hour acid monitoring, oesophageal manometry, or an endoscopy.
In most cases, further investigation is not needed.
Globus Sensation Treatment
The treatment for globus sensation revolves around the underlying cause. Here’s a quick overview of the potential treatments:
For Acid Reflux
Acid reflux is easily treated with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It reduces acid production in the stomach, preventing irritation of the oesophagus due to backflow. Antacids are also advised during an acidity attack.
Your doctor will recommend some lifestyle changes, such as avoiding trigger foods, propping yourself up in bed, and reducing caffeine and alcohol intake.
For Anxiety
Anxiety and stress are only issues if they’re chronic. An antidepressant can help with anxiety symptoms. But the best treatment is called cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). It involves identifying anxious thoughts as they arise and implementing techniques to manage them.
For Postnasal Drip
Postnasal drip often occurs after a cold and will naturally resolve itself. But if it’s related to an allergy, a nasal spray can help reduce symptoms.
Other Treatments
In addition to these treatments, a speech and language therapist might work on the muscles around your throat. This can help the muscles coordinate properly with each other.
Take Control of Your Health with The Functional Gut Clinic
Globus sensation is never pleasant. Usually, it’ll resolve itself within a few days or weeks. But if it’s linked to a persistent sore throat and heartburn, acid reflux might be to blame.
The Functional Gut Clinic specialises in testing for conditions like acid reflux and can help identify whether reflux, muscle tension, or another issue is causing your discomfort. Book a consultation today to get the clarity and relief you deserve.
