What causes the sensation of something blocking the throat?
Dec 31, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, a sensation of something blocking the throat may be caused by dry throat, emotional factors, chronic pharyngitis, reflux laryngitis, or epiglottic cyst. If discomfort occurs, timely medical attention is recommended. To prevent this symptom, it is advised to stay well-hydrated in daily life to avoid throat dryness, and to avoid spicy and irritating foods, as well as reduce exposure to tobacco and alcohol.
Generally, a sensation of something stuck in the throat may be caused by pharyngeal dryness, emotional factors, chronic pharyngitis, reflux laryngitis, or epiglottic cysts. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Pharyngeal Dryness
When the throat is dry, reduced moisture on the mucosal surface increases mucosal sensitivity, easily causing a sensation of throat obstruction. Maintaining adequate water intake, avoiding prolonged exposure to dry environments, and using humidifiers to improve indoor humidity can help reduce pharyngeal dryness.
2. Emotional Factors
Anxiety, tension, and other emotional states can cause throat muscle tension, leading to a foreign body sensation. This sensation is usually closely related to emotional changes. Learning relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and yoga can help relieve emotional stress. Maintaining a positive mindset and avoiding excessive anxiety is also important.
3. Chronic Pharyngitis
Chronic pharyngitis is usually caused by repeated episodes of acute pharyngitis, long-term smoking and alcohol consumption, or inhalation of harmful gases. The pharyngeal mucosa becomes congested and swollen, with increased secretions, resulting in a foreign body sensation in the throat. It may be accompanied by symptoms such as throat pain, dryness, and a burning sensation. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as compound borax mouthwash, cetidine lozenges, and throat-clearing granules may be used for treatment.
4. Reflux Laryngitis
Reflux laryngitis may occur when stomach acid flows back to the throat, irritating the throat mucosa and causing inflammation. Acid irritation leads to swelling of the throat mucosa and a foreign body sensation. It may also be accompanied by hoarseness, difficulty speaking, and coughing. Follow medical advice for treatment with medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, rabeprazole sodium enteric-coated tablets, and domperidone tablets.
5. Epiglottic Cyst
An epiglottic cyst may form due to blockage of the mucus glands in the epiglottic mucosa, causing mucus retention. As the cyst enlarges, it compresses surrounding tissues, causing a foreign body sensation in the throat. It is often accompanied by pain, difficulty swallowing, and breathing difficulties. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as amoxicillin capsules, penicillin V potassium tablets, and cefradine capsules may be used for treatment. Surgical removal of the epiglottic cyst may be necessary in some cases.
To prevent this symptom, it is recommended to maintain adequate hydration in daily life to avoid throat dryness. Avoid spicy and irritating foods, and reduce exposure to smoking and alcohol.
