Lump in the throat

We see many patients who contact us because they have an abnormal sensation in the throat, almost like a lump in the throat (globus sensation). 

The condition is usually not accompanied by difficulty swallowing or pain in the throat, but may be accompanied by muscle tension in the neck so it feels tense. The mucous membranes of the throat are sensitive and have many nerves, which is why it does not take much before you feel something in the throat that perhaps should not be there. 

What does it feel like?

The lump sensation can feel in several ways, including:

• Tenderness, burning or pain in the throat, which may be accompanied by mucus problems or give a sensation of a dry spot in the throat. 
  
• Tendency to clear the throat, irritating cough or hoarseness.
  
• The lump sensation may also be accompanied by pain in the ear. In some cases there is also swelling on the outside of the neck. 

What can it be caused by?

• It may be swelling due to enlarged tonsils or a cyst or a polyp in the larynx.
  
• Reflux: Mucosal irritation possibly due to reflux of gastric acid from the stomach and oesophagus to the throat.
  
• Infection: It may be localised inflammation in the throat caused by viruses, bacteria or fungi.
  
• Allergy: Allergy can cause swelling in the throat.
  
• There may be secretions from the nasal-sinus system running backwards and down into the throat.
  
• Smoking: tobacco smoke burdens and irritates the mucous membranes of the throat.
  
• Stress- or anxiety-related conditions can cause tension in the throat.
  
• The voice may be strained due to incorrect voice use.
  
• Other disease: It may also be an ulcer or other disease that should be examined more closely.

Should it be examined?

If you have had throat problems for 2-3 weeks we recommend that you have it examined by an ear, nose and throat consultant.It is important that it is examined and clarified whether it is serious.

In most cases, however, there is a benign explanation for the problems with possible treatment options and relief of the symptoms as a result.

At CPH Privathospital we are ready to receive you for a check-up with a thorough outpatient examination of the throat (fibroscopy) and our ear, nose and throat consultant can also offer you further examinations, such as blood tests, ultrasound, MRI and CT, if necessary.

Same doctor and rapid treatment

Regardless of whether the symptoms have occurred acutely or are of a longer-lasting nature, you should be seen by a consultant in ear, nose and throat. Our consultants are ready to help you, so you can quickly get the right diagnosis, whether you are a private payer, have health insurance or come through the public waiting time guarantee.

All examinations can take place at CPH Privathospital, and you therefore have the same experienced consultant throughout the entire course.