A feeling of a lump in the throat

Abstract

This is part of a series of occasional articles on common problems in primary care. The BMJ welcomes contributions from GPs.

Rare Causes for Foreign Body Sensation in Throat: When Old Outlook Meets New Novelty

“…Though it looks as a simple presentation, it has diverse branches in a variety of fields of medicine that is yet to be explored or in the process of being discovered. Usual causes for this symptom have been come across on day to day basis and are treated accordingly [1]. In this study, I have tried to bring to focus the uncommon causes for foreign body sensation of throat which these days have become common.…”

“…Although cancer very rarely presents as globus pharyngeus. It is important to ask about red flag symptoms such as persistent hoarseness of voice, progressive dysphagia or dysphagia for solids, pain on swallowing, haemoptysis In general practice, a full examination of the head and neck is important[1]. The neck should be examined for thyroid gland and cervical lymph nodes.…”

Globus pharyngeus: an update for general practice

“…As in every consultation the patient's ideas, concerns, and expectations should be considered; many patients presenting with globus sensation are worried about cancer. 6 In general practice, a full examination of the head and neck is important. The neck should be palpated, ensuring the thyroid gland and cervical lymph nodes are examined.…”

“…An abnormal neck or oral examination should prompt urgent referral to secondary care. 6 InvestIGAtIon And referrAl Most cases of globus pharyngeus can be managed in primary care following a thorough history and examination. Overreferral may result in uncomfortable and unnecessary investigations and is likely to fuel anxiety in patients, which may exacerbate the symptom.…”