Do you ever feel like something is stuck in your throat? At one time or another, many of us experience an itchiness or ‘blockage’ right behind the tongue or tonsils. This feeling may drive us mad or be a mild irritant. It may only happen once in a while, while others experience these symptoms nearly everyday. Sometimes, we feel like these throat irritants when we feel other symptoms, which may include pressure in the chest, excess saliva, hoarseness, loss of appetite, or weight loss.
For most people who experience occasional difficulties swallowing, it’s probably not a big deal. However, persistent difficulties should motivate you to seek medical attention at a highly regarded ear, nose and throat center, such as the ENT Center of Utah. The main reasons we have difficulty swallowing, which is called dysphagia, are because of an actual blockage or it could be due to muscle and/or nerve issues.
After examination, doctors may suggest these one of these therapies:
Antibiotics for throat infections like tonsillitis
Stomach acid reduction medications for symptoms caused by GERD and esophagitis
Diet restrictions to help you avoid food that can cause allergic reactions or intolerances, such as coffee, sour foods, alcoholic drinks, and spicy foods.
Minor surgery or procedure to remove objects that are actually stuck in the throat
Surgery and radiotherapy may be necessary to remove a tumor inside or around the throat
Behavioral therapy is good for some who just need to chew food carefully and eat slowly
Of course, early detection and effective treatment of the underlying cause behind throat issues can lower your risk of more serious problems. Contact us if your symptoms persist for more than one week. But if you ever have sudden difficulty breathing, call 9-1-1 immediately as it might be life threatening.