What causes a foreign body sensation in the throat and what should I do?
Dec 31, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the throat refers to the pharynx. A sensation of a foreign body in the throat may be caused by factors such as dryness of the pharyngeal mucosa, gastroesophageal reflux, chronic pharyngitis, tonsillitis, or epiglottic cysts. Treatment may include general management, medication, or surgical intervention, as directed by a physician. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. In daily life, it is advised to maintain humidified indoor air.
Generally speaking, the throat refers to the pharynx. A sensation of a foreign body in the throat may be caused by dryness of the pharyngeal mucosa, acid reflux, chronic pharyngitis, tonsillitis, epiglottic cyst, and other conditions. Treatment options include general management, medication, surgery, and other approaches, as directed by a physician. A detailed explanation is as follows:
1. Dryness of Pharyngeal Mucosa
When the body receives insufficient hydration, the environment is dry, or one speaks for extended periods, the mucous membranes in the throat may lose moisture, becoming dry and causing a foreign body sensation. It is important to drink plenty of water, maintain humid indoor air, use a humidifier if necessary, and avoid prolonged loud speaking.
2. Acid Reflux
Eating too much, lying down immediately after eating, or consuming irritating foods may cause stomach acid to flow back into the throat, irritating the pharyngeal mucosa and causing a foreign body sensation. One should avoid overeating, eat smaller meals more frequently, avoid lying down immediately after meals, limit spicy, greasy, acidic, and other irritating foods, and elevate the head of the bed while sleeping.
3. Chronic Pharyngitis
Chronic pharyngitis often results from recurrent acute pharyngitis or chronic inflammation of the nose and respiratory tract. Inflammatory stimulation causes congestion of the pharyngeal mucosa and hyperplasia of lymphatic follicles, resulting in a foreign body sensation. Symptoms may also include throat discomfort, dryness, itching, and irritative cough. Under a physician’s guidance, treatment options may include using compound borax mouthwash, pharyngitis tablets, watermelon frost throat lozenges, and other medications.
4. Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis is mainly caused by pathogenic microorganisms. The inflammation affects the tonsils and surrounding tissues, leading to tonsillar swelling and a sensation of a foreign body in the throat. Symptoms may also include sore throat, fever, and difficulty swallowing. Under medical guidance, medications such as amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium, ibuprofen tablets, and compound chlorhexidine mouthwash may be used for treatment.
5. Epiglottic Cyst
An epiglottic cyst may result from congenital factors, chronic inflammation, or external injury. When the cyst enlarges, it occupies space in the throat, causing a foreign body sensation. Additional symptoms may include a feeling of obstruction during swallowing and difficulty breathing. Surgical removal of the cyst is usually required under a physician's guidance.
In daily life, it is recommended to maintain moist indoor air and avoid exposure to harmful gases and dust. If symptoms worsen or persist, timely medical consultation at a hospital is advised.
