What could cause a sensation of a foreign body in the throat that has lasted for two months?

Jun 06, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
In general, a persistent foreign body sensation in the throat lasting for two months may be caused by gastroesophageal reflux, tonsillitis, or chronic pharyngitis. In addition to these three causes, it could also result from conditions such as post-cricoid tumors, esophageal cancer, or lymphoma. It is recommended that once this symptom occurs, prompt medical consultation should be sought so that a professional physician can provide the most appropriate treatment plan, avoiding blind self-medication.

In general, a persistent sensation of a foreign body in the throat lasting for two months may be caused by gastroesophageal reflux, tonsillitis, chronic pharyngitis, or other reasons. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Gastroesophageal Reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux refers to discomfort caused by the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus. When the refluxed material irritates the larynx, patients may experience a sensation of a foreign body during swallowing. Under medical guidance, patients can take medications such as domperidone tablets or omeprazole enteric-coated capsules for treatment.

2. Tonsillitis

Patients with tonsillitis may also feel a foreign body sensation in the throat when swallowing saliva or food. They should consume easily digestible, nutritious foods. Additionally, mouthwashes may be used appropriately to relieve pain, disinfect, and maintain oral hygiene. Under medical supervision, patients can take medications such as amoxicillin capsules or cefaclor dispersible tablets for treatment.

3. Chronic Pharyngitis

Chronic pharyngitis can lead to hyperplasia of pharyngeal lymphoid follicles, resulting in noticeable elevations and mucus attachment, which causes a persistent sensation of a foreign body in the throat. Patients should reduce intake of irritating foods and avoid smoking and alcohol. Under medical guidance, they may use lozenges such as cydiodine tablets or lysozyme lozenges for treatment.

Besides the three conditions mentioned above, this symptom could also be caused by retrocricoid tumors, esophageal cancer, lymphoma, or other serious conditions. It is recommended that individuals experiencing such symptoms seek medical attention promptly for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan from a qualified physician, avoiding self-medication without proper guidance.