Differential Diagnosis for Food Bolus in Throat
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Globus Pharyngeus: This condition is characterized by the sensation of a lump or foreign body in the throat, often due to swallowing difficulties or anxiety, making it a common cause for the sensation of a food bolus in the throat.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Esophageal Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing can lead to the sensation of food being stuck in the throat, which is a common symptom of esophageal dysphagia.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD can cause symptoms of dysphagia and the sensation of food sticking in the throat due to acid reflux.
- Anxiety or Stress: High levels of anxiety or stress can exacerbate or cause the sensation of a lump in the throat, often mistaken for a food bolus.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Esophageal Foreign Body: Although less common, an actual foreign body (like a large piece of food) lodged in the esophagus is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
- Esophageal Stricture: Narrowing of the esophagus can cause severe dysphagia and the sensation of food being stuck, which is critical to diagnose and treat to prevent further complications.
- Cancer of the Throat or Esophagus: Though rare, cancers in this region can cause dysphagia and the sensation of a food bolus, making early diagnosis crucial for effective treatment.
Rare Diagnoses
- Eosinophilic Esophagitis: An inflammatory condition of the esophagus that can cause dysphagia and food impaction, often associated with atopic diseases.
- Achalasia: A rare disorder of the esophagus that makes swallowing difficult, leading to the sensation of food being stuck in the throat.
- Pharyngoesophageal (Zenker's) Diverticulum: A condition where a pouch forms in the pharynx, potentially causing difficulty swallowing and the sensation of food lodging in the throat.