Esophageal reflux disease (GERD) and pesky throat blockages: Origin and remedies

Esophageal reflux disease (GERD) and pesky throat blockages: Origin and remedies

Article Title: Understanding Globus Sensation: A Symptom of GERD

GERD and Globus Sensation

Many people experience a persistent feeling of food being stuck in the throat without any physical obstruction. This sensation, known as globus sensation or globus pharyngeus, can be a symptom of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).

GERD occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. This irritation can extend to the throat and the back of the voice box, leading to globus sensation. The increased sensitivity in the throat often results in frequent throat clearing, further aggravating the irritation.

Causes and Symptoms

Globus sensation does not typically interfere with swallowing solid food or liquids but causes discomfort and persistent awareness of something in the throat. Other symptoms of GERD include heartburn, regurgitation, nausea, chest pain, and odynophagia (painful swallowing). Additionally, GERD can lead to complications such as chronic cough, hoarseness, and lung infections.

Managing Globus Sensation and GERD

In some cases, lifestyle modifications can help manage GERD and globus sensation. These modifications include maintaining a healthy weight, good sleep hygiene, avoiding eating at least three hours before bedtime, sleeping with the head elevated, and making diet changes.

Vocal hygiene, including avoiding smoking, alcohol, and caffeine, may also help manage symptoms. In some cases, drinking aerated or carbonated drinks such as cola may help dislodge food stuck in the esophagus.

Medical Interventions

If lifestyle changes are not sufficient, medical interventions may be necessary. Medications such as H2 blockers, proton-pump inhibitors, and prokinetic agents may be prescribed. Surgical interventions may be required for those who experience side effects from medical therapy or choose to discontinue long-term medical treatment for GERD.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If the sensation is accompanied by difficulty swallowing, weight loss, or pain, further medical evaluation is important to rule out other causes. People should visit a healthcare professional as soon as possible if they experience drooling, muscle weakness, recurrent aspiration pneumonia, or weight loss due to dysphagia.

Preventing Complications

In some cases, large food particles can get stuck in the esophagus and may require removal via an endoscopy. To prevent such complications, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly if experiencing persistent globus sensation or difficulty swallowing.

Sources:

1. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Globus pharyngeus. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/globus-pharyngeus/symptoms-causes/syc-20353470
2. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2021). Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/gastroesophageal-reflux-disease-gerd
3. Cleveland Clinic. (2021). Globus Sensation: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17798-globus-sensation
4. American College of Gastroenterology. (2021). GERD: Diagnosis and Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.acg.org/patients/disease-information/gerd
5. American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery Foundation. (2021). Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR). Retrieved from https://www.entnet.org/content/laryngopharyngeal-reflux-lpr
6. Depression can exacerbate GERD symptoms, including globus sensation, due to heightened stress levels.
7. AQ (Autism Quotient) scores have been found to be higher in individuals with GERD, suggesting a possible link between the two conditions.
8. Diabetes, particularly type 2, shares a common risk factor with GERD: obesity.
9. GERD can contribute to various chronic kidney diseases by causing kidney inflammation and decreased kidney function.
10. Acid reflux, a symptom of GERD, can worsen symptoms of COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and increase the risk of respiratory infections.
11. Psoriatic arthritis, an autoimmune disorder, is associated with a higher prevalence of GERD and other digestive health issues.
12. Predictive models based on science can help identify people at high risk of developing GERD or its complications, allowing for early interventions.
13. Workplace wellness programs should consider incorporating education and resources for managing GERD and its symptoms, given its prevalence and impact on quality of life.
14. A comprehensive understanding of medical conditions like GERD, chronic kidney disease, and COPD is crucial for developing effective workplace-wellness strategies.
15. Chronic diseases such as GERD, diabetes, and COPD can contribute to hearing loss and eye health problems due to the cumulative effect of inflammation, oxidative stress, and vascular damage.
16. Fitness and exercise can help manage and prevent GERD and other chronic diseases by promoting weight loss, improving digestion, and decreasing stress levels.
17. Alzheimer's disease and other neurological disorders can be exacerbated by chronic inflammation, which is associated with GERD and other digestive health issues.
18. Skin care is important for people with psoriasis, an autoimmune skin condition, as they are at a higher risk of developing GERD and other digestive health problems.
19. Therapies and treatments for GERD and other chronic conditions, such as CBD (Cannabidiol), can provide relief from symptoms and improve overall health and wellness.
20. Adequate nutrition is essential for managing GERD and preventing complications, as certain foods can trigger acid reflux.
21. Multiple sclerosis, a chronic neurological disorder, can be managed in part through nutrition, which may help reduce inflammation and promote overall wellness.
22. Migraines and headaches can be triggered or worsened by GERD, making it essential to address both conditions for optimal health.
23. Cardiovascular health may be impacted by GERD, as inflammation in the digestive system can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
24. Psoriasis, a chronic skin condition, has been found to be more common in people with rheumatoid arthritis, another autoimmune disorder that can be associated with GERD.
25. Neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis, are among the many conditions that can be affected by GERD and other digestive health issues.
26. Breast cancer, while primarily a cancer of the breast tissue, can have systemic effects that may impact digestive health and contribute to conditions such as GERD.

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