kurkkutukkoisuus

Kurkkutukkoisuus, commonly referred to as a lump in the throat sensation, is a subjective feeling of a foreign body or obstruction in the throat that does not interfere with swallowing or breathing. It is a symptom rather than a disease itself and can be associated with a variety of underlying causes.

Psychological factors are frequently implicated. Stress, anxiety, and emotional distress can manifest as physical sensations, including this feeling of tightness or fullness in the throat. This is often referred to as globus pharyngeus or globus sensation. In some cases, it may be linked to past traumatic experiences or unresolved emotional issues.

Physical causes, while less common, can also contribute to kurkkutukkoisuus. These may include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid irritates the throat, leading to inflammation and a sensation of a lump. Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), a variant of GERD, can also cause similar symptoms. Other potential physical causes include minor inflammation of the pharynx or larynx, post-nasal drip, or even very small benign growths in the throat area.

Diagnosis typically involves a thorough medical history and physical examination by a healthcare professional. If physical causes are suspected, further investigations like endoscopy or pH monitoring may be recommended. Treatment depends on the identified cause. For psychologically-related cases, stress management techniques, counseling, or therapy may be beneficial. For reflux-related symptoms, medication to reduce stomach acid production and lifestyle modifications are often prescribed. It is important to consult a doctor to determine the specific cause and appropriate management plan.