What causes a foreign body sensation in the throat and what should be done?
Dec 31, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, a foreign body sensation in the throat may be caused by dry mucous membranes in the pharynx, improper diet, chronic pharyngitis, reflux esophagitis, or epiglottic cysts. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention at a hospital and undergo standardized treatment under a doctor's guidance. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene is important, including proper brushing in the morning and evening, and rinsing the mouth after meals to reduce bacterial growth.
Under normal circumstances, a sensation of a foreign body in the throat may be caused by dryness of the pharyngeal mucosa, improper diet, chronic pharyngitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease, or epiglottic cysts. Treatment can be administered under a doctor's guidance through general approaches, medications, surgical interventions, and other methods. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation for standardized treatment under a doctor’s guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Dryness of Pharyngeal Mucosa
When the body is dehydrated or in a dry environment, moisture from the pharyngeal mucosa may evaporate, causing the mucosal surface to become dry and rough. This can stimulate nerve endings in the throat, resulting in a sensation of a foreign body. It is important to ensure adequate water intake, and using a humidifier to regulate indoor humidity can help reduce evaporation of moisture from the pharyngeal mucosa.
2. Improper Diet
Consuming excessive spicy, greasy, irritating, or overly hot foods may irritate the pharyngeal mucosa, causing local congestion and edema, which can lead to a sensation of a foreign body in the throat. It is advisable to reduce intake of such foods and consume more bland, easily digestible foods rich in vitamins.
3. Chronic Pharyngitis
Chronic pharyngitis is often caused by repeated episodes of acute pharyngitis or chronic inflammation from various nasal conditions and respiratory diseases. Long-term inflammatory stimulation can lead to mucosal and submucosal tissue hyperplasia and thickening, along with lymphoid follicle proliferation, resulting in a sensation of a foreign body in the throat. Symptoms may also include dryness, itching, and a burning sensation in the throat. Treatment may include medications such as throat tablets for pharyngitis, Qinghou Liyan granules, or Cetylpyridinium Iodide lozenges, under a doctor's guidance.
4. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD primarily results from dysfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing gastric contents to reflux into the esophagus and even the pharynx. Refluxed gastric acid irritates the pharyngeal mucosa, causing inflammation and a sensation of a foreign body. Symptoms may also include heartburn, acid regurgitation, and retrosternal pain. Treatment may include medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, hydrotalcid chewable tablets, or domperidone tablets, as directed by a physician.
5. Epiglottic Cyst
An epiglottic cyst typically forms when the ducts of mucus glands in the epiglottis become obstructed, causing mucus retention and cyst formation. The cyst occupies space in the throat and stimulates surrounding tissues, leading to a sensation of a foreign body. Symptoms may include difficulty swallowing and impaired breathing. Surgical removal is usually the primary treatment, and the cyst can be completely excised under a suspension laryngoscope.
In daily life, maintaining good oral hygiene is important—brush teeth correctly in the morning and evening, rinse the mouth after meals, and reduce bacterial growth. Frequent handwashing and regular exercise can also help strengthen the immune system.
