HealthInfo Canterbury
Lump in the throat (globus sensation)
Globus sensation is a feeling that you have a lump in the throat, even though there is no lump there. It is also called globus pharyngeus. It is different from dysphagia (swallowing difficulties). If you have difficulty swallowing you need to see your doctor straight away.
Globus sensation does not affect eating and drinking and often comes and goes. Though it is quite common, we don't know what causes globus sensation.
Usually your doctor can diagnose globus from your symptoms and an examination of your throat. If there is any concern you may be referred to an otolaryngologist (ORL, formerly known as an ear, nose and throat or ENT specialist) who will look down your throat with a flexible telescope that is passed down your nose.
Usually you won't need any treatment. If you have a condition that could be making the globus worse, your doctor may give you treatment such as tablets for stomach acid reflux or nasal spray for post-nasal drip.
HealthInfo recommends the following pages
- Patient.info – Globus sensation
This page gives more information about what globus sensation is, what tests may be needed and how globus sensation is treated.
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed May 2020.
SourcesReview key: HILIT-150951
