Why does my throat feel blocked as if something is stuck in it, even though it doesn't hurt? What should I do?
Dec 31, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the throat does not hurt but feels as if something is blocking it, referring to a sensation of a foreign body in the throat. This sensation may be caused by dryness of the pharyngeal mucosa, psychological factors, chronic pharyngitis, vocal cord nodules, epiglottic cysts, or other reasons. Treatment can be carried out under a doctor's guidance through general management, medication, surgical intervention, and other approaches. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended.
Under normal circumstances, a non-painful sensation of a lump in the throat may be caused by dryness of the pharyngeal mucosa, psychological factors, chronic pharyngitis, vocal cord nodules, or epiglottic cysts. Treatment options include general management, medication, and surgery, as directed by a physician. If symptoms persist, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Dryness of Pharyngeal Mucosa
Excessive talking, staying in a dry environment, or insufficient water intake can cause moisture loss and dryness of the pharyngeal mucosa, leading to a sensation of a lump in the throat without pain. It is important to drink more water daily, maintain indoor air humidity, avoid prolonged loud talking, and appropriately use humidifiers to increase air moisture.
2. Psychological Factors
Mental stress, anxiety, depression, and other psychological factors may also lead to the above symptoms, typically without organic lesions. Maintaining a positive mindset, learning to relieve stress, engaging in outdoor activities, and seeking psychological counseling can help alleviate mental pressure.
3. Chronic Pharyngitis
Chronic pharyngitis is usually caused by repeated episodes of acute pharyngitis, chronic inflammatory stimulation from various nasal diseases and respiratory tract conditions, long-term mouth breathing, and repeated irritation of the pharynx by inflammatory secretions. Inflammation leads to congestion of the pharyngeal mucosa and hyperplasia of lymphoid follicles, resulting in a sensation of a lump in the throat without pain. Symptoms may include discomfort, itching, or a burning sensation in the throat. Treatment options under medical guidance include compound borax mouthwash, Pharyngitis Tablets, and Qinghou Liyan Granules.
4. Vocal Cord Nodules
Vocal cord nodules are primarily caused by improper or excessive voice use over a prolonged period. These nodules affect the normal vibration of the vocal cords, causing hoarseness and also leading to a sensation of a lump in the throat without pain. Symptoms may also include weak voice production and intermittent hoarseness. Under medical guidance, treatment options may include Jinshang Sanjie Pills, Huangshi Xiangsheng Pills, and beclomethasone dipropionate inhalation aerosol.
5. Epiglottic Cyst
An epiglottic cyst may be caused by mechanical injury, laryngopharyngeal reflux, allergic reactions, chronic inflammatory stimulation, congenital developmental abnormalities, and other factors. The cyst occupies space and can cause a sensation of a lump in the throat without pain. It may also be accompanied by difficulty swallowing or breathing. Small asymptomatic cysts may not require treatment but should be monitored regularly. Larger or symptomatic cysts typically require surgical removal under a supportive laryngoscope.
In daily life, maintaining good living habits is important, such as regular作息 (作息 translates as作息规律 which means regular作息 or routine), avoiding excessive fatigue, engaging in appropriate physical exercise, and enhancing physical fitness.
