June 01, 2021 Throat cancer is a condition that is characterized by the development of malignant tumors in the throat (pharynx), voice box (larynx) or tonsils. In most cases, throat cancer originates in the flat cells that line the inside of the throat, a muscular tube that extends from the nose to
the bottom of the neck. The symptoms of throat cancer can vary based on its specific location. Sometimes, it can cause a palpable lump to form in the neck, although this symptom is not always present. It’s also important to note that neck lumps are often associated with upper respiratory infections, such as strep throat, and do not
always indicate the presence of cancer. These lumps are actually lymph nodes that have become temporarily enlarged as they fight off infection. After the infection clears, the lymph nodes return to their normal size and the lumps go away. On the other hand, a lump that occurs without an infection or persists long after an infection resolves may be a sign of throat cancer. In addition to a lump, swelling or thickness in the neck, some other warning signs and symptoms of throat cancer include: In the renowned Head and Neck Cancer Program at Moffitt Cancer Center, our multispecialty team collaboratively evaluates each patient’s symptoms and diagnostic test results. After diagnosing throat cancer, we develop a highly individualized treatment plan and closely monitor the patient’s progress. Our patients have access to the latest
treatment options, including clinical trials that provide early access to promising new therapies that are not yet available in other settings. If you have concerns about a lump you feel in your throat, you can consult with a
head and neck cancer specialist at Moffitt Cancer Center with or without a referral. For more information, call 1-888-663-3488 or complete a new
patient registration form online. SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT  What is Globus Pharyngeus?Globus Pharyngeus refers to the feeling of a lump in the throat. Some people describe this as a ‘tightness’ in the throat which is commonly felt when swallowing saliva. This is usually not associated with sore throat. They don’t experience any difficulty in swallowing food, in fact some people find that the globus symptoms are better while eating and drinking. This globus sensation is usually felt in the front of the neck and it can move up and down or sideways. How common is Globus Pharyngeus?It is a common condition that accounts for approximately 4% of new referrals to ear, nose and throat (ENT) clinics. It is reported by up to 46% of apparently healthy individuals, with a peak incidence in middle age.This condition is equally prevalent in men and women, though the latter are more likely to seek health care for this symptom. What are the associated symptoms of Globus Pharyngeus?
What are the potential causes of Globus Pharyngeus?
What are the investigations?There has been no consensus regarding how best to diagnose and manage globus pharyngeus. A study of United Kingdom-based ENT specialists (Webb et al, 2000) found that 14% performed no tests on globus patients but rather simply prescribed antacid medication if clinically indicated. The remaining 86% investigated globus symptoms in a variety of ways, including rigid endoscopy (61%), barium swallow (56%), or a combination of these methods (17.5%). Nasal endoscopy – This is usually done in the clinic by passing a flexible fibre-optic camera through your nose to view your nose, throat and voice box. Barium Swallow – This is done in the radiology department. You are asked to drink a preparation that contains barium sulfate which is a compound that shows up on X-rays. The X-rays track its path through your upper digestive system and is used to help see abnormalities in the oesophagus and stomach. Xray C-spine – This is a simple Xray of the neck to check for any arthritis of the neck spine (osteophytes). Osteophytes can sometimes cause globus symptoms Rigid endoscopy – This involves examination of the throat, voice box and food pipe under a general anaesthetic. What can be done to help?Given the benign nature of the condition, patients with typical globus do not appear to need further investigation; rather, a 3-month treatment with high-dose anti reflux medication seems to be a reliable treatment option Acid reflux medications – Omeprazole, Lansoprazole, ranitidine, Gaviscon advance Life style modifications to reduce acid reflux-minimise caffeine, spirits, fruit juice and spicy food intake, stop smoking, avoid fizzy drinks, leave at least 3 hours between dinner and going to sleep etc Speech and language therapy / Relaxation techniques include:
The most important thing to remember is that this condition is just an abnormal sensation of a lump in the throat rather than an actual growth or lump.Is there a chance that this could be cancer?Globus symptom causes a lot of anxiety among patients who are smokers or heavy drinkers. However, patients with “alarm signs”, such as dysphagia (difficulty in swallowing), odynophagia (painful swallowing) throat pain, weight loss and hoarseness should undergo more extensive evaluation.
For more information on Mr Modayil, his clinical interests or to arrange an appointment, please click here.References Moloy PJ, Charter R. The globus symptom. Incidence, therapeutic response, and age and sex relationships. Arch Otolaryngol. 1982;108:740–744. [PubMed] Drossman DA, Li Z, Andruzzi E, Temple RD, Talley NJ, Thompson WG, Whitehead WE, Janssens J, Funch-Jensen P, Corazziari E. U.S. householder survey of functional gastrointestinal disorders. Prevalence, sociodemography, and health impact. Dig Dis Sci. 1993;38:1569–1580. [PubMed] Batch AJ. Globus pharyngeus (Part I) J Laryngol Otol. 1988;102:152–158. [PubMed] Smit CF, van Leeuwen JA, Mathus-Vliegen LM, Devriese PP, Semin A, Tan J, Schouwenburg PF. Gastropharyngeal and gastroesophageal reflux in globus and hoarseness. Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2000;126:827–830. [PubMed] Sinn DH, Kim JH, Kim S, Son HJ, Kim JJ, Rhee JC, Rhee PL. Response rate and predictors of response in a short-term empirical trial of high-dose rabeprazole in patients with globus. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2008;27:1275–1281. [PubMed] Tokashiki R, Yamaguchi H, Nakamura K, Suzuki M. Globus sensation caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease. Auris Nasus Larynx. 2002;29:347–351. [PubMed] Webb CJ, Makura ZG, Fenton JE, Jackson SR, McCormick MS, Jones AS. Globus pharyngeus: a postal questionnaire survey of UK ENT consultants. Clin Otolaryngol Allied Sci. 2000; 25:566–569. Disclaimer: This information is intended solely for the general information of the reader and is not a substitute for medical care provided by a licensed and qualified health professional. Please consult your GP/health care provider for a formal diagnosis. Date: 10/05/2017 Why do I feel like I have a knot in my throat?Some more common causes of a lump in the throat are acid reflux, stress or anxiety, and tension in the throat muscles. You can help ease a lump in your throat by swallowing, reducing stress, and trying out various movements and exercises.
Is a lump feeling in the throat serious?A lump in the throat, or globus sensation, is the painless feeling of tightness, fullness, or something in the throat. Globus sensation is usually not worrisome and may go away on its own. If you have globus sensation that persists or comes with other symptoms, see your healthcare provider to have it checked.
How long does Globus last?Globus can last days to weeks to even months and can be recurrent. If symptoms last longer than a couple weeks, often, the patient will be referred to an Otolaryngologist or an ENT.
Will globus sensation go away?Globus sensation usually disappears on its own over time, but you should seek medical advice if the condition is accompanied by any of the following symptoms: Pain in the throat or neck. Weight loss. Vomiting.
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I feel like i have a knot in my throat
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