Globus: Causes & ENT Treatment
The sensation of a lump in the throat, medically called globus sensation, is a very common complaint. Patients often describe it as:
- “Something stuck in my throat”
- “Tightness in the throat”
- “Need to swallow all the time”
Although uncomfortable and worrying, globus is usually not dangerous. However, when it persists, proper ENT assessment is important to exclude underlying problems.
As an ENT specialist, I frequently see patients who fear cancer, but in most cases, the cause is reflux, muscle tension, or nasal drip.
What Does Globus Feel Like?
Patients describe:
- Lump or tight feeling in throat
- Constant need to swallow
- Symptoms worse when not eating
- Improves temporarily when eating
- No real food blockage
True difficulty swallowing is different and requires urgent review.
Common Causes of Lump Sensation in Throat
1. Acid Reflux (Silent Reflux)
Stomach acid irritates the throat:
- Burning
- Throat clearing
- Hoarse voice
2. Muscle Tension & Stress
Anxiety can cause throat muscle spasm.
3. Post-Nasal Drip
Mucus dripping from nose irritates the throat.
4. Enlarged Tonsils or Lingual Tonsils
5. Thyroid Enlargement
6. Rare Causes (Cancer)
Usually with:
- Weight loss
- Pain
- Blood
- Progressive swallowing difficulty
🚨 When Should You Worry?
Seek urgent ENT review if:
- Real difficulty swallowing
- Food gets stuck
- One-sided pain
- Neck lump
- Voice change
- Weight loss
How an ENT Specialist Evaluates Globus
Assessment includes:
- Detailed history
- Mouth & neck exam
- Flexible nasoendoscopy
- Thyroid assessment
- Imaging if needed
This ensures serious conditions are excluded.
Treatment Options
✅ Reflux Control
- Medication
- Avoid late meals
- Reduce caffeine & spicy food
✅ Muscle Relaxation
- Stress control
- Voice hygiene
✅ Nasal Treatment
- Steroid sprays
- Saline wash
Treatment is cause-based.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is globus cancer?
No. Cancer is rare but must be ruled out.
Q: Why does it feel worse when I’m not eating?
Eating temporarily relaxes throat muscles.
Q: Can anxiety cause globus?
Yes, very commonly.
When Should You See an ENT Specialist in Kuala Lumpur?
Consult ENT if:
- Symptoms persist >2 weeks
- You feel anxious about cancer
- You have warning signs
Proper ENT assessment gives reassurance and targeted treatment.
👨⚕️ ENT Specialist’s Perspective
Globus sensation is often benign but never ignored. Direct throat visualisation is essential to exclude cancer and structural disease. Accurate diagnosis prevents unnecessary medication and anxiety.
Reviewed by Dr Ameen, ENT Specialist, Kuala Lumpur
Dr. Ameen, ENT Specialist in Kuala Lumpur 