The sensation of something stuck in the throat can be both bothersome and distressing. In order to relieve this feeling, it is essential to understand the possible causes and implement effective methods to alleviate the discomfort.
Whether it’s a foreign object, excess mucus, or even anxiety-induced globus sensation, addressing the issue in a timely manner can significantly improve one’s well-being. In the following sections, we will explore various techniques and home remedies that can help you effectively manage and relieve the feeling of something stuck in your throat.
Why do I feel like there’s a ball in my throat?
Feeling like there’s a ball in your throat can be attributed to a condition called “globus sensation” or “globus pharyngeus.” This sensation is not uncommon and can be caused by various factors, including:
Muscle tension or spasm
Tension or spasms in the throat muscles can lead to the sensation of a lump or ball in the throat.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
GERD occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. This can lead to the sensation of a lump in the throat.
Anxiety and stress
Heightened stress and anxiety levels can cause throat muscles to tighten or spasm, resulting in the feeling of a ball in the throat.
Postnasal drip
Excess mucus production from the nasal passages can accumulate in the back of the throat, leading to the sensation of a lump or ball.
Infections or inflammation
Conditions like tonsillitis, pharyngitis, or laryngitis can cause swelling or inflammation in the throat, leading to the sensation of a ball in the throat.
Enlarged thyroid gland
An enlarged thyroid gland, or goiter, can put pressure on the throat, causing a sensation of a lump.
How do you clear your throat when it feels like something is stuck?
When it feels like something is stuck in your throat, there are several methods you can try to clear it:
Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to help lubricate the throat and potentially dislodge any foreign object or mucus causing the sensation.
Swallowing technique: Try swallowing saliva repeatedly, or perform a “hard swallow” by taking a sip of water, tilting your head back, and swallowing forcefully.
Gargle: Gargle with warm salt water to help soothe the throat and dislodge any stuck debris. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, and gargle for a few seconds before spitting it out. Repeat a few times.
Eat soft foods: Consuming small bites of soft foods like bread or bananas may help push the stuck object or mucus down the throat.
Throat lozenges or cough drops: Suck on a throat lozenge or cough drop to help increase saliva production, which can assist in clearing the throat.
Humidifier: Use a humidifier in your room to increase air moisture, which can help soothe the throat and make it easier to clear.
Steam inhalation: Inhale steam from a bowl of hot water or take a hot shower to help loosen mucus and alleviate the sensation of something stuck in your throat.
Coughing: Gently coughing may help dislodge any foreign object or mucus causing the sensation.
How long does it take for something stuck in your throat to go away?
The duration it takes for something stuck in your throat to go away can vary depending on the cause of the sensation and the individual’s response to remedies. In some cases, the feeling may resolve within a few hours or a day by using self-care techniques like drinking water, swallowing, or gargling.
However, if the sensation is caused by an underlying condition, such as GERD, postnasal drip, or anxiety, it may take longer to resolve. In these cases, addressing the root cause through medical intervention or lifestyle changes is crucial for relief. The duration for relief in such cases can range from days to weeks or even longer, depending on the effectiveness of the treatment and the individual’s response.
If the sensation persists for more than a few days, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms like pain, difficulty swallowing, or weight loss, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.
How to relieve feeling of something stuck in throat and chest?
If you’re experiencing the sensation of something stuck in your throat and chest, try the following methods to help relieve the discomfort:
Over-the-counter antacids
If you suspect GERD or acid reflux is causing the sensation, try taking over-the-counter antacids to neutralize stomach acid and relieve the discomfort.
Elevate your head while sleeping
Sleeping with your head elevated can help reduce acid reflux, which could alleviate the sensation of something stuck in your throat and chest.
Manage stress and anxiety
Practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga may help alleviate stress and anxiety, which can contribute to the sensation of something stuck in the throat and chest.
Something stuck in throat how to get it out home remedies
Feel like something is stuck in your throat, you can try these home remedies to help dislodge the foreign object or alleviate the sensation:
Honey and lemon
Combine a tablespoon of honey and a few drops of lemon juice in a cup of warm water. Sip the mixture slowly, as it can help soothe the throat and loosen mucus.
Apple cider vinegar
Mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of warm water and sip it slowly. The vinegar may help break down mucus and dislodge the stuck object.
Warm herbal tea
Sip on warm herbal tea, like chamomile or licorice root, to help soothe and relax the throat muscles.
Massage the throat
Gently massage the outside of your throat with your fingers, using upward and downward strokes. This can help relax the throat muscles and potentially dislodge the stuck object.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can tonsillitis cause the sensation of something stuck in my throat?
Ans: Tonsillitis can cause swelling or inflammation in the throat, which can contribute to the feeling of something stuck in your throat.
Q2: Is it dangerous to have a foreign object stuck in the throat?
Ans: A foreign object stuck in the throat can be dangerous, especially if it causes difficulty breathing, pain, or severe difficulty swallowing. Seek medical help immediately in such cases.
Q3: How can I prevent the sensation of something stuck in my throat?
Ans: Practice good oral hygiene, stay hydrated, manage stress and anxiety, and avoid irritants like smoking or excessive alcohol consumption to help prevent the sensation.
Q4: Can an enlarged thyroid gland cause the feeling of something stuck in the throat?
Ans: An enlarged thyroid gland, or goiter, can put pressure on the throat, causing the sensation of a lump or obstruction in the throat.
Q5: When should I see a doctor for the feeling of something stuck in my throat?
Ans: Consult a doctor if the sensation persists, worsens, or is accompanied by pain, difficulty swallowing, breathing issues, or weight loss.
