The feeling of something stuck in your throat, even when there’s no physical lump, is called the Globus sensation or Globus pharyngeus. It can be confusing and distressing.
This article provides you with the details relationship between Globus sensation and the commonly used anti-inflammatory medication, Ibuprofen. Is there a connection? Does Ibuprofen help Globus Sensation?
Let’s explore the scientific perspective and give you clear answers to these important questions.
What is the Globus Sensation?
Globus sensation is defined as the persistent or intermittent sensation of a lump or foreign body in the throat. It can make you feel like there’s a lump in your throat even when there’s no physical blockage. It’s a functional esophageal disorder characterized by feelings unrelated to physical obstruction or disease.
A 2017 article in the journal Frontline Gastroenterology shows that doctors previously regarded Globus as primarily a psychological condition. However, recent research has revealed that it can be a symptom of both psychological and physical conditions.
According to the NHS (National Health Service) of the United Kingdom, people may describe the feeling as if something is tightening around their throat.
However, it’s important to note that the Globus sensation often comes and goes over time, and is usually not a sign of a more serious condition.
Symptoms
Globus can also make a person go through:
- Feeling of a lump in the throat
- swelling of the throat
- Discomfort when swallowing
- Sensation of throat tightness
- Changes in voice
- Persistent throat-clearing
- Sore throat
- Hoarseness
- Dry throat
- Unexplained cough
- Throat pain or tenderness
What’s The Causes of Globus Sensation
The exact cause of Globus sensation can be challenging to pinpoint, as it can be linked to both physical and psychological factors.
However, high stress levels or intense anxiety can lead to muscle tension in the throat, causing the Globus sensation. It often occurs when people are holding back strong emotions.
Physically, it may be associated with conditions affecting the throat or esophagus, like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), or esophageal dysmotility. The latter involves the uncoordinated movement of the esophagus, which can give a sensation of something stuck in the throat.
According to a 2015 study, the majority (up to 96%) of people with Globus reported a worsening of symptoms during periods of high emotional intensity.
Other medical conditions that can cause Globus include:
- Cricopharyngeal spasm: a type of muscle spasm occurring in the throat.
- Sinusitis: inflammation of the sinuses.
- Hiatus hernia: when a section of the stomach moves up into the chest.
- Post-nasal drip: continuous production of mucus by the glands in the throat and nose.
- Swollen thyroid gland or goiter.
Sometimes, in extremely rare instances, hypopharyngeal cancer might be the cause.
Related: How To Sleep With Globus Sensation?
Understanding Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is a commonly used over-the-counter medication belonging to the class of drugs known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It’s mostly used for its analgesic (pain-relieving), anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic (fever-reducing) properties.
This medication works by inhibiting the body’s production of substances that cause inflammation and pain, providing relief to various conditions like headaches, menstrual cramps, arthritis, and minor injuries.
It’s available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and suspensions, and its usage should be as directed by a doctor. Note that while Ibuprofen is effective in reducing inflammation and pain, it does not cure any underlying disease causing these symptoms.
Benefits and Usage of Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen offers numerous benefits in managing pain and inflammation.
It is mostly effective in:
- reducing fever
- alleviating mild to moderate pain caused by sprains and strains
- easing discomfort due to inflammatory conditions like arthritis
Ibuprofen is also beneficial in managing toothache, and menstrual cramps, and in some cases, can be used to relieve post-operative pain.
Generally, dosage changes depending on age, weight, and condition being treated. It’s usually taken every 4-6 hours, and it’s essential to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or on the medication package.
Does Ibuprofen help Globus sensation?
No, there is no any current research that directly links the use of Ibuprofen to alleviating the Globus sensation. While Ibuprofen is effective in reducing inflammation and pain, these are not common symptoms associated with Globus sensation, which mostly manifests as a discomforting lump-like sensation in the throat.
However, a study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology has shown that Ibuprofen may make acid clearance slower by reducing pressure in the lower esophageal sphincter and slowing down esophageal movement within the first 2 hours after taking it. This could potentially make conditions like GERD and LPR worse.
Given that these conditions are sometimes associated with Globus, using Ibuprofen could potentially worsen the sensation in some people.
Therefore, it’s important to talk to a before before using Ibuprofen or any medication for Globus sensation, as the underlying cause needs to be accurately identified and treated. Incorrect self-medication could worsen the condition or lead to unnecessary side effects.
Is Globus contagious?
No, the Globus sensation is not contagious. It is a symptom rather than a disease itself and can be due to a variety of physical or psychological causes. Globus cannot be transmitted via physical contact or through the air, like an infectious disease.
It’s a personal experience that varies greatly among people depending on the underlying cause. However, note that if the Globus sensation is a symptom of an underlying contagious condition like sinusitis or throat infection, then that condition could be potentially contagious.
Does Globus sensation go away?
The Globus sensation often improves over time without treatment, especially if it’s linked to anxiety or stress. Behavioral techniques like relaxation exercises or therapy can help manage stress and reduce the frequency and severity of Globus episodes.
However, if the Globus sensation is due to a physical condition like GERD, LPR, or a throat infection, it won’t go away without addressing the underlying issue. In such cases, treatments can include lifestyle changes, medications to manage symptoms, or even surgery in more severe cases.
Remember, persistent or worsening Globus sensation should always be evaluated by a doctor to rule out more serious conditions.
Simple Home Remedies for Globus Sensation
While there’s no definitive cure for Globus sensation, many people find relief through home remedies like:
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of water can help keep your throat moist and reduce the sensation of a lump.
- Dietary Changes: Avoid acid-triggering foods if gastrointestinal problems like GERD or LPR are causing your Globus sensation.
- Throat Exercises: Certain throat exercises can help reduce the feeling of a lump by strengthening the muscles in your throat.
- Relaxation Techniques: Techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation can help reduce stress, which is often linked to Globus sensation.
- Voice Therapy: Although typically guided by a professional, voice therapy can also be practiced at home. It helps improve voice use without straining the throat muscles.
- Avoiding Irritants: Avoiding exposure to irritants like smoking or high-alcohol-content mouthwashes, which can inflame the throat and intensify Globus sensations.
- Warm Fluids: Drinking warm fluids such as herbal tea or hot water with lemon can help relax the throat muscles.
Remember, it’s always advisable to seek a doctor before trying any home remedy, especially if the Globus sensation persists or worsens.
Conclusion
In summary, Globus sensation is a common condition that can cause discomfort and unease for those who experience it. Ibuprofen can help with temporary relief, but it’s not a specific treatment for this condition. If you are concerned about your symptoms or if they continue, be sure to consult a medical professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. The question “Does Ibuprofen Help Globus Sensation?” doesn’t have a definite answer, but it’s worth exploring different options for relief.
FAQ
Is Globus sensation serious?
Globus sensation is generally not a serious condition, but it can be quite distressing and negatively impact the quality of life. While it does not pose a direct threat to health in most cases, it can be a symptom of a serious underlying condition like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), or throat cancer.
Can Ibuprofen cause Globus sensation?
There is no definitive research that shows Ibuprofen directly causes Globus sensation. However, as discussed earlier, Ibuprofen can decrease the pressure in the lower esophageal sphincter and slow down esophageal movement, which could potentially exacerbate conditions like GERD and LPR.
What are some other treatments for Globus sensation?
Treatments for Globus sensation are greatly based on the underlying cause. Should it be due to a physical condition like GERD or LPR, treatments may involve dietary changes, antacids, or proton pump inhibitors to manage the symptoms. Psychological causes like anxiety or stress may necessitate relaxation techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy, or potentially medication. In more severe cases, or when the cause is a physical abnormality like a growth in the throat, surgery may be required.
Is there anything else I can do to manage globus sensation?
Certainly, along with the treatments and home remedies mentioned earlier, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also play a significant role in managing globus sensation. This involves staying physically active, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep to promote overall well-being. Plus, avoiding known irritants like smoking or high-alcohol-content mouthwashes can help prevent globus sensations.
