Differential Diagnosis for Acute Globus Sensation after Coughing
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Acute Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR): This condition is characterized by the backflow of stomach acid into the laryngopharynx, which can be triggered by coughing. The globus sensation, a feeling of a lump in the throat, is a common symptom of LPR.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Muscle Strain: Coughing can lead to strain on the muscles of the throat, leading to a globus sensation.
- Postnasal Drip: Excess mucus from the nose can trickle down the back of the throat, causing irritation and a globus sensation.
- Vocal Cord Lesions: Coughing can cause trauma to the vocal cords, leading to lesions that may cause a globus sensation.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Epiglottitis: Although rare, epiglottitis is a life-threatening condition that can cause a globus sensation. It is characterized by inflammation of the epiglottis and can lead to airway obstruction.
- Thyroid Mass: A thyroid mass can cause compression of the trachea or esophagus, leading to a globus sensation.
- Esophageal Foreign Body: An object lodged in the esophagus can cause a globus sensation and is a medical emergency.
Rare Diagnoses
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) with Esophageal Spasm: While GERD is common, esophageal spasm is a rare complication that can cause a globus sensation.
- Pharyngeal or Esophageal Diverticulum: These are rare conditions where a pouch forms in the pharynx or esophagus, which can cause a globus sensation.
- Tuberculosis or Other Infectious Diseases: Certain infectious diseases can cause a globus sensation, although these are rare in many parts of the world.