Why can’t I clear the big lump in my throat?

FOR months I have suffered from a lump in my throat – no matter how much I swallow or cough, I can’t clear it. My GP couldn’t see anything untoward, nor could the ear, nose and throat (ENT) consultant I was referred to. He diagnosed me with globus pharyngeus. Apart from being told to lose weight, which I have, he was unhelpful. The problem persists, so how can I get rid of it? THE defining feature of globus pharyngeus, or just globus, is that no disease can be found to account for it. Therefore, it is imperative that patients have an ENT review to ensure there are no physical changes, including signs of cancer.

While there is no cure for globus, it does resolve in time. It can take as long as two years, but two-thirds of people will recover completely.

Treatments can be tried in the meantime to lessen discomfort. Acid coming up from the stomach, known as acid reflux, can be a factor. The best way to lessen that is through weight loss but dietary changes, such as reducing your alcohol and coffee intake, should also help.

Speech and language therapy can help to reduce tension and tightness in the larynx and throat through voice exercises and neck massages.

Globus may start or can be worsened by stress. The anxiety from the lump in the throat and what may be causing it creates a vicious cycle of tension that only exacerbates the feeling. Counselling, mindfulness and exercise can also be useful in controlling the problem. I have recently been diagnosed with ME. How long must I put up with this fatigue? ME, NOW more commonly known as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), may arise after a period of physical or mental health problems, or even without prior warning.

Putting a timeframe on the condition is difficult but one study suggests about 40 per cent of sufferers improve after five years.

Treatment can be beneficial but will not offer a cure.

Many experts now think CFS stems from problems with the nervous system. It is not uncommon for people to suffer fatigue after a virus or illness. But no conclusive link has ever been found.

The most important thing is to get a GP referral to the nearest CFS clinic. Sleep, rest and relaxation techniques are also incredibly important.

Graded exercise therapy is the mainstay of CFS treatment.

This involves a programme of activity tailored to suit an individual and should ideally be under the supervision of a physiotherapist or occupational therapist.

In trials, cognitive behavioural therapy has been shown to be effective. It’s also important to note that before CFS is diagnosed, tests must be carried out to rule out the other common causes of fatigue.