Difficulty swallowing may present as scratching, tightness, or the sensation that food is not passing properly. The causes range from harmless throat irritation to processes in the oesophagus. Often an infection or temporary irritation is behind it. If the symptoms persist, a targeted examination is important.
Possible causes
Pharyngitis
An infection irritates the mucous membrane in the throat and makes swallowing painful. This usually resolves as the infection clears.
Irritation from gastric acid
Rising gastric acid can irritate the throat and oesophagus and trigger a sensation of tightness or a lump.
Oesophageal disorder
Strictures — for instance due to scarring after long-standing reflux, more rarely due to a tumour — or motility disorders of the oesophagus make it difficult to pass food along. It is typical that at first solid food, and later also liquids, no longer pass down easily.
Nervous lump sensation
Tension and stress can cause a lump or tightness sensation in the throat without any physical constriction being present.
Typical steps at the doctor's office
- 1Your doctor will ask about the course of symptoms and examine your throat and neck.
- 2Depending on the situation, an endoscopy of the throat and oesophagus or further examinations may help identify the cause.
- 3Treatment depends on the findings and ranges from treating an infection to calming an irritation through to further therapy.
What you can do yourself
- Choose soft and well-moistened foods and chew calmly.
- Drink sufficient fluids to make swallowing easier.
- Temporarily avoid irritating foods such as very spicy or hot meals.
- When anxious, eat slowly and consciously focus on calm breathing.
If food gets stuck or breathing difficulty is added, this is an emergency: 144. Increasing difficulty swallowing solid food, unintentional weight loss, or new swallowing problems from age 50 should be investigated within one to two weeks, usually with an endoscopy. If swallowing difficulties persist, increase, or occur without a recognisable infection, an investigation is advisable. The ENT practice or the general practitioner's practice is responsible for this, supplemented by gastroenterology if needed.
Frequently asked questions
- What causes a lump sensation in the throat?
- Often irritation or tension is behind it. If the sensation persists, an examination helps to classify the cause.
- Should I eat differently if I have difficulty swallowing?
- Soft, moist foods and calm chewing make swallowing easier. If symptoms persist, an assessment is advisable.
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