What should I do if I have a persistent foreign body sensation in my throat for a long time?

Generally speaking, the throat refers to the pharynx. A persistent foreign body sensation in the throat may be caused by poor eating habits, unfavorable environmental conditions, chronic pharyngitis, gastroesophageal reflux laryngopathy, vocal cord polyps, and other factors. Treatment options include general management, medication, and surgical interventions, as directed by a physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Poor Dietary Habits

Long-term consumption of spicy, greasy, or hard foods may irritate the pharyngeal mucosa, causing mucosal congestion, edema, and a foreign body sensation. It is important to maintain a balanced diet, consume more fresh fruits and vegetables, avoid excessive intake of irritants, and chew food thoroughly and slowly during meals.

2. Unfavorable Environment

Long-term exposure to air pollution, secondhand smoke, or chemical substances may irritate the throat mucosa and cause a foreign body sensation. It is recommended to improve the living environment, avoid exposure to harmful substances, maintain fresh indoor air, and wear a mask when going outdoors.

3. Chronic Pharyngitis

Chronic pharyngitis may be related to recurrent acute pharyngitis or long-term irritation from smoking and alcohol consumption. Chronic congestion, thickening of the pharyngeal mucosa, and lymphoid follicle hyperplasia may lead to a sensation of a foreign body. Symptoms may also include dryness and a burning sensation in the throat. Treatment options include medications such as Pudilan Anti-inflammatory Oral Liquid, Cetylpyridinium Iodide Lozenges, and Pidotimod Granules, as directed by a physician.

4. Gastroesophageal Reflux Laryngopathy

Gastroesophageal reflux laryngopathy is mainly caused by dysfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter, excessive gastric acid secretion, reduced esophageal clearance capacity, delayed gastric emptying, and unhealthy lifestyle habits. These factors allow gastric acid and pepsin to reflux into the throat, irritating the mucosa and causing inflammation and a foreign body sensation. Symptoms may include belching and acid regurgitation. Patients may take medications such as Omeprazole Enteric-coated Capsules, Lansoprazole Enteric-coated Tablets, and Ranitidine Hydrochloride Capsules as prescribed by a physician.

5. Vocal Cord Polyps

Vocal cord polyps may develop due to long-term improper voice use or chronic inflammatory irritation, leading to mucosal proliferation and polyp formation. These polyps can obstruct the throat, causing a foreign body sensation, hoarseness, or even breathing difficulties. Under medical guidance, patients may undergo vocal cord polypectomy using microscopic instruments, laser, or plasma technology to precisely remove the polyps, restore normal vocal cord morphology and vibration function, and alleviate symptoms such as hoarseness.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, eating a balanced diet, avoiding irritants, ensuring adequate sleep, and engaging in moderate physical activity are also important.