Globus Sensation: The Feeling of a Lump in the Throat Explained
A Hampshire ENT Clinics patient guide
A persistent feeling of a lump in the throat, tightness, or the sensation that something is stuck when you swallow is known as globus sensation (or globus pharyngeus). It is a very common reason for referral to ENT specialists and, while uncomfortable and worrying, it is usually benign.
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, we regularly assess patients with globus symptoms and help identify the cause, provide reassurance, and offer targeted treatment where appropriate.
What Is Globus Sensation?
Globus is the subjective sensation of a lump or tightness in the throat, typically felt between the Adam’s apple and the base of the neck. Importantly:
It is usually worse between swallows
Eating and drinking often improves the sensation
There is no true blockage
This distinguishes globus from conditions that cause genuine difficulty swallowing (dysphagia).
Common Causes of Globus
Globus often has more than one contributing factor, including:
1. Throat and Muscle Tension
Increased tension in the muscles of the throat and neck—often related to stress or anxiety—can produce a persistent tight or lump-like sensation.
2. Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (Silent Reflux)
Acid or non-acid reflux reaching the throat can irritate sensitive tissues without causing classic heartburn. This is one of the most common causes.
3. Post-Nasal Drip
Chronic rhinitis or sinus inflammation can lead to mucus pooling in the throat, contributing to irritation and awareness.
4. Voice Overuse or Strain
Frequent throat clearing, heavy voice use, or coughing can perpetuate symptoms.
5. Heightened Sensory Awareness
After a viral infection or period of throat irritation, some patients develop increased sensitivity in the throat despite normal anatomy.
What Globus Is Not
A normal ENT assessment is reassuring because globus is rarely caused by cancer, particularly when there is:
No pain on swallowing
No food sticking
No weight loss
No persistent hoarseness
ENT review is important to exclude these causes and provide reassurance.
How Is Globus Assessed?
Assessment typically includes:
A detailed history of symptoms
Examination of the neck and throat
Flexible nasendoscopy to inspect the throat and voice box
In most patients, findings are normal or show mild reflux-related inflammation.
Treatment and Management
Treatment depends on the underlying contributors and may include:
Reassurance and explanation (often the most important step)
Reflux management (dietary changes ± medication)
Treating nasal inflammation or post-nasal drip
Voice care advice and reducing throat clearing
Addressing stress and muscle tension
Symptoms often improve gradually over weeks once triggers are addressed.
When to Seek Urgent Review
You should seek prompt medical assessment if you experience:
Progressive difficulty swallowing food
Pain on swallowing
Persistent hoarseness
Unexplained weight loss
A true sensation of food sticking
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is globus sensation serious?
In the vast majority of cases, no. Globus is common and benign, particularly when ENT examination is normal.
Can anxiety cause globus?
Yes. Stress and anxiety can increase throat muscle tension and sensory awareness, making globus more noticeable or persistent.
Does reflux always cause heartburn?
No. Many patients with globus have silent reflux, affecting the throat without chest pain or indigestion.
Why does globus feel worse when I’m not eating?
Globus is usually most noticeable between swallows. Swallowing food or drink temporarily relaxes throat muscles and clears secretions.
Can post-nasal drip cause a lump sensation?
Yes. Chronic mucus in the throat can irritate tissues and contribute to globus symptoms.
Will globus go away on its own?
Often, yes. With reassurance, simple lifestyle changes, and treatment of contributing factors, symptoms usually improve over time.
Do I need scans or biopsies?
Not usually. If ENT examination and nasendoscopy are normal and there are no red-flag symptoms, further tests are rarely required.
Is throat clearing making it worse?
Yes. Repeated throat clearing can irritate the throat and perpetuate symptoms. Breaking this habit is an important part of management.
Where can I be assessed?
Assessment is available at Hampshire ENT Clinics, with consultant-led care across Portsmouth, Winchester, Salisbury, and the wider Hampshire region.
Reassurance and Expert Care
Globus sensation can be distressing, but it is very rarely a sign of serious disease. A careful ENT assessment can provide reassurance and a clear plan to help symptoms settle.
📞 If you are experiencing a persistent lump-in-the-throat sensation, contact Hampshire ENT Clinics to arrange an expert assessment.