Lump in the Throat

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Globus is the medical term for a sensation of a lump in the throat where no true lump exists.  It is extremely common, can occur at any age and in either sex.

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What is globus and what are the usual symptoms?

Symptoms can vary and fluctuate, but are typically centered in the middle and base of the neck.

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Patients with globus may complain of the following symptoms:

• Feeling of a lump
• Throat constriction
• Neck tension
• Tightness in the throat  
• Voice problems are occasionally present

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What factors can trigger or worsens globus?

Like migraine headaches, the triggers of globus are often multifactorial. They include:

• Stress
• Fatigue
• Reflux
• Voice strain
• Smoking
• Post nasal drip

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Is there a chance that this could be cancer?

Patients who seek medical attention about this condition are often concerned that their symptoms could be related to a growth or cancer. Our ENT physicians can address your concerns with a thorough evaluation that may include:

• A complete history
• A complete physical exam of the head and neck region
• Laryngoscopy, a flexible camera tube with a light at the tip which is gently passed through the nasal opening and used to look at and evaluate the throat structures
• Imaging/X-rays, when warranted
• Blood work/lab testing, when warranted

Signs and symptoms concerning for a more serious health issue, such as cancer, can include:

• Lodging of food in the throat
• Coughing of blood or blood-tinged saliva
• Sensation of pain off to one side, especially if radiating to the ear
• Progressive worsening of pain, swallowing, breathing or voice quality
• Weight loss

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Have additional concerns? Call DeFatta ENT & Allergy at (715) 828-2368 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our throat specialist.