Globus Specialist

Norman J. Chan, MD -  - Otolaryngologist

Norman J. Chan, MD

Otolaryngologist located in Chinatown, New York, NY

Globus is an uncomfortable sensation that some describe as a feeling of something stuck in the throat. Others describe it as an unsettling feeling of throat tightening or choking. Globus sensation is not just in your head and can also lead to other health complications like a chronic cough. At Norman J Chan MD in Chinatown, New York, the team understands globus sensation is a serious medical condition and offers a range of treatments to help you address your symptoms. To learn more, call the office, or use the online scheduling tool to make an appointment.

Globus Q & A

What is globus sensation?

Globus sensation, also called globus syndrome, is the persistent feeling of having a lump in the back of your throat when no actual lump is there. 

It’s a common condition that’s caused by many different reasons. One of the most common causes of globus sensation is increased tightness in the muscles of your throat. Other common reasons you may develop it are:

  • Inflammation 
  • Acid reflux
  • Psychological factors
  • Tumors
  • Thyroid disease
  • Cervical spondylitis
  • Stress and anxiety

Each of these conditions causes the tissues lining your throat to become irritated and change your perception of how your throat feels. 

Globus sensation can disappear by itself over time, but if it is persistent or you are having the following symptoms, get medical care at Norman J Chan, MD, right away:

  • Throat or neck pain
  • Weight loss
  • Vomiting
  • Painful swallowing
  • Choking when swallowing

If you can see or feel a mass around your throat or if your symptoms worsen over time, get immediate medical care. Patients with a history of smoking or alcohol use may notice their symptoms come up more suddenly.


What are the treatments for globus sensation?

There isn’t any one cure for globus sensation. Norman J Chan MD provides customized treatments that address your specific symptoms. Some treatments he may recommend are:

Muscle therapy

If tight throat muscles are the reason for your globus sensation, Dr. Chan helps you learn how to ease the tightness.

Antacids

Over-the-counter and prescription medication can help relieve acid reflux and once this condition is addressed, your globus sensation should decrease.

Psychotherapy

If anxiety or stress are causing your globus sensation, talk therapy can help treat the underlying issues that are making you feel this way.

Eating slowly

Chewing thoroughly and swallowing deliberately can help ease your globus sensation.

To learn more about globus sensation and how you can treat it, call the office, or use the online scheduling tool to make an appointment at Norman J Chan MD.