After waking up from sleep, I feel a foreign body sensation in my throat, as if something is blocking it. What could be the reason?

Waking up with a sensation of a foreign body in the throat may be caused by dry sleeping environments, stimulating foods before bedtime, chronic pharyngitis, tonsillitis, or gastroesophageal reflux. This can be improved by adjusting the environment, modifying diet, and medical treatment. If the sensation persists or is accompanied by sore throat or difficulty swallowing, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Dry sleeping environment: Insufficient air humidity during sleep leads to moisture loss from the pharyngeal mucosa, causing dryness and tightness that results in a foreign body sensation, particularly noticeable upon waking. It is recommended to use a humidifier in the bedroom before sleep or place a basin of water indoors. Drinking a glass of warm water before bed and after waking can also help moisturize the throat.

2. Pre-sleep dietary irritation: Consuming spicy, overly sweet, or greasy foods before bedtime can cause congestion of the pharyngeal mucosa or increase mucus secretion due to food residue, leading to a sensation of a foreign body upon waking. It is advisable to avoid eating 1–2 hours before bedtime and to maintain a light diet to reduce throat irritation.

3. Chronic pharyngitis: Long-term inflammatory stimulation of the pharyngeal mucosa causes congestion, swelling, and increased secretions. Upon waking, accumulated secretions adhere to the throat, causing a foreign body sensation along with dryness and soreness. Patients may use medications such as Qinghou Liyan Granules, Watermelon Frost Throat Lozenges, or Compound Chlorhexidine Mouthwash under medical guidance to relieve symptoms.

4. Tonsillitis: Inflammation of the tonsils caused by bacterial or viral infection leads to enlarged tonsils and increased secretions, which may obstruct the throat and cause a foreign body sensation upon waking, often accompanied by sore throat and discomfort during swallowing. Under medical supervision, patients may use medications like Amoxicillin Clavulanate Potassium for Oral Suspension, Pudilan Anti-inflammatory Oral Liquid, or Kaihoujian Spray to alleviate symptoms.

5. Gastroesophageal reflux: When lying down at night, stomach contents may reflux into the throat, irritating the mucosa and causing inflammation, resulting in a sensation of a foreign body upon waking, often associated with acid regurgitation and discomfort behind the breastbone. Patients may take medications such as Omeprazole Enteric-coated Capsules, Domperidone Suspension, or Hydrotalcite Chewable Tablets as prescribed to improve symptoms.

Maintain appropriate indoor humidity, eat light meals before bedtime, drink adequate water, rinse the mouth with warm water upon waking, avoid loud speaking, and minimize throat irritation to support recovery of the pharyngeal mucosa.