What causes the persistent feeling of having a foreign body in the throat?

Generally speaking, the term "throat" refers to the pharynx. A persistent sensation of a foreign body in the throat may be caused by dryness of the pharyngeal mucosa, psychological factors, chronic pharyngitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or epiglottic cysts. If discomfort persists, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Dryness of the Pharyngeal Mucosa:

When the body is dehydrated or exposed to a dry environment, the moisture content in the pharyngeal mucosa decreases and mucus secretion diminishes. This reduces the lubricating effect on the mucosal surface, increasing the sensitivity of sensory nerve endings in the throat. During swallowing or breathing, normal airflow, saliva, or food passing through the throat can easily stimulate these hypersensitive nerves, causing a sensation of a foreign body. It is important to ensure adequate daily water intake.

2. Psychological Factors:

Excessive mental tension, anxiety, depression, or excessive stress can lead to dysfunction of the nervous system. Muscles in the throat may spasm or remain in a state of tension due to abnormal nerve regulation. Additionally, the brain's perception and processing of sensory signals from the throat may become distorted. Even in the absence of organic lesions in the throat itself, a sensation of a foreign body may still occur. Active stress-reduction measures should be taken, such as cultivating hobbies like painting, calligraphy, or music appreciation, to divert attention and relieve mental tension.

3. Chronic Pharyngitis:

Chronic pharyngitis is usually caused by long-term smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or frequent exposure to harmful gases and dust. Prolonged inflammation can cause congestion, swelling of the pharyngeal mucosa, and hyperplasia of lymphoid follicles. These enlarged follicles and swollen mucosa can alter the normal physiological structure of the throat, leading to a sensation of a foreign body during swallowing. Symptoms may also include throat itching, burning, or dryness. Medications such as Pharyngitis Tablets, Qinghou Liyan Granules, or Lanqin Oral Liquid may be used under a doctor's guidance.

4. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD):

Causes of gastroesophageal reflux typically include improper diet, unhealthy lifestyle habits, and gastrointestinal dysfunction. Refluxed gastric acid and stomach contents can travel upward into the esophagus and even reach the throat, directly chemically irritating the pharyngeal mucosa and triggering an inflammatory response. This alters the function of sensory nerves in the throat, resulting in a sensation of a foreign body. Symptoms may also include heartburn and acid regurgitation. Medications such as Omeprazole Enteric-coated Capsules, Hydrotalcite Chewable Tablets, or Domperidone Tablets may be taken under medical supervision.

5. Epiglottic Cyst:

Epiglottic cysts are typically caused by mechanical injury, laryngeal reflux, allergic reactions, chronic inflammatory irritation, or congenital developmental abnormalities. The cyst forms a space-occupying lesion in the epiglottis and surrounding areas, altering the normal anatomical structure and physiological pathways of the throat. During swallowing, the passage of food or air may be obstructed, and the cyst may compress and stimulate nerve receptors in surrounding tissues, causing a sensation of a foreign body. Symptoms may also include difficulty swallowing or breathing. Surgical removal of the cyst under medical guidance may be necessary to alleviate symptoms.

Maintaining good personal hygiene and oral health can help reduce the risk of throat infections.