digestive disorders
Lump in Throat
Evaluation of Lump in Throat
People with globus sensation rarely require immediate evaluation by a doctor. The following information can help people decide whether a doctor’s evaluation is needed and help them know what to expect during the evaluation. In people with globus sensation, certain symptoms and characteristics suggest another disorder is present and are cause for concern. They include Neck or throat pain Weight loss Abrupt appearance Pain, choking, or Difficulty Swallowing (dysphagia) Spitting up ( Regurgitation and Rumination ) of food Muscle weakness A Neck Lump that is visible or that can be felt Progressive worsening of symptoms People who have warning signs should see a doctor within a few days to a week. People who have no warning signs should call their doctor. Depending on the severity and nature of the sensation, doctors may suggest people wait to see how symptoms develop or suggest a mutually convenient time. Doctors ask questions about the person's symptoms and medical history and do a physical examination. What doctors find during the history and physical examination helps decide what, if any, tests need to be done. The history is focused on distinguishing globus sensation from difficulty swallowing, which suggests a structural or motility (movement) disorder of the throat or esophagus. Doctors ask people to clearly describe their symptoms, particularly their relationship to swallowing (such as a sensation of food sticking) and emotional events. They also seek any other warning signs. The physical examination is focused on the mouth and neck. Doctors inspect and feel the floor of the mouth and the neck for masses. Doctors look down the throat with a thin, flexible viewing scope to inspect the back of the throat and the voice box. Doctors also observe the person swallowing water and a solid food such as crackers. Warning signs or abnormal findings found during the examination suggest a mechanical or motility disorder of swallowing. People who have chronic symptoms that occur during episodes of grief that may be relieved by crying suggest globus sensation. People who have symptoms that are not related to swallowing, have no warning signs (particularly no pain or difficulty with swallowing), and a normal examination (including swallowing observed by the doctor) most likely have globus sensation. Such people rarely need tests. If the diagnosis is unclear, warning signs are present, or the doctor cannot adequately see the throat, swallowing tests (see Testing ) are done. Typical tests include a swallowing evaluation, plain or video esophagography, measurement of swallowing time, chest x-ray, and 