Differential Diagnosis for a Sensation of Something in the Throat
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Globus pharyngeus: This condition is characterized by a persistent, non-painful sensation of having a lump or foreign body in the throat. It is often associated with stress, anxiety, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and is the most common cause of this symptom.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Stomach acid flowing up into the throat can cause irritation and a sensation of something being stuck.
- Postnasal drip: Excess mucus from the nose can trickle down the back of the throat, causing irritation and the sensation of something being present.
- Tonsillitis or pharyngitis: Inflammation of the tonsils or throat can cause discomfort and the sensation of a foreign body.
- Allergies: Seasonal or environmental allergies can cause postnasal drip and throat irritation, leading to the sensation of something in the throat.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Esophageal cancer: Although rare, esophageal cancer can cause a sensation of something being stuck in the throat, and is a critical diagnosis not to miss due to its poor prognosis if left untreated.
- Foreign body obstruction: Accidental ingestion of a foreign object can cause a sudden, severe sensation of something being stuck in the throat, and requires immediate medical attention.
- Angioedema: A severe allergic reaction can cause swelling of the throat, leading to a sensation of obstruction and potentially life-threatening airway compromise.
Rare Diagnoses
- Zenker's diverticulum: A rare condition where a pouch forms in the pharynx, potentially causing food to accumulate and leading to the sensation of something being stuck.
- Eagle syndrome: A rare condition where an elongated styloid process or calcified stylohyoid ligament causes throat pain and the sensation of a foreign body.
- Hypothyroidism: In some cases, hypothyroidism can cause throat discomfort and the sensation of something being stuck, although this is a less common presentation.