Sometimes referred to as a globus sensation, globus hystericus is the feeling of having something stuck in the throat. The phenomenon is sometimes known colloquially as having a frog or lump in the throat. This condition does not actually interfere with the process of swallowing, although it tends to make the action somewhat uncomfortable. It is not unusual for people to experience this condition when under a lot of stress or dealing with a situation that makes them nervous or anxious.
The symptoms of globus hystericus are relatively straightforward. For the individual suffering with this condition, there seems to be something lodged firmly in the throat. Attempts to swallow the obstruction are not successful, even when drinking a beverage in an attempt to wash it down. In the more severe cases, the individual may feel some discomfort in the upper chest or possibly some pain during the process of swallowing. However, it is still possible to swallow normally, although with less comfort.
When it comes to defining causes for globus hystericus, anxiety is often cited as one of the more common reasons the condition develops. Stress, fear, and anxiety may combine to create this sensation of having something stuck in the throat. However, there is also the possibility that the condition comes about due to a developing inflammation in the larynx or hypopharynx. For some people, the lump in the throat is a precursor to the development of a sore throat or an impending head cold.
When it comes to treatment, it is important to identify the origins of the condition. If there is no inflammation present in any part of the throat, then some form of anxiety is often the culprit. Finding ways to alleviate the anxiety will often help to ease the sensation of having something caught in the throat and relieve any pain or discomfort associated with the swallowing. Should a doctor find an inflammation in the throat, medication is normally the most effective form of treatment for globus hystericus.
In very rare situations, the root cause for the lump in the throat may be due to a physical issue with the construction of tissue within the throat. When this is the case, surgery can often be employed to correct the situation. A physician can order the proper tests to determine if there is some sort of anatomical abnormality that is causing the condition, then arrange the mode of treatment that is in the best interests of the patient.