Several conditions can cause tightness in the throat. Let’s look at a few of the more common causes, as well as when to seek treatment.
Common Causes of Throat Tightness
- GERD/Acid reflux. Reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus and often causes heartburn. If it happens regularly, it’s known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is a very common condition, affecting approximately 20% of adults in western culture. In addition to other symptoms like chronic cough, hoarseness, and having a sour taste in your mouth, reflux can also make you feel like you have a lump in your throat and/or difficulty swallowing.
- Infections. Conditions like strep throat or tonsillitis can cause tightness and soreness in the throat. If an infection is causing your symptoms, you may also experience a fever, chills, swollen glands, headache, loss of voice and red or swollen tonsils.
- Allergies. When you have an allergic reaction, it’s because your body mistakes a harmless substance (like pollen or pet dander) as dangerous and responds by releasing chemicals that cause symptoms like nasal congestion and watery eyes. Some people experience severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. This causes your airways to swell up and tighten. Additional symptoms include wheezing, swelling in your face, lips tongue and mouth, rash, rapid beat, dizziness or fainting.
When To See a Doctor
If a severe allergic reaction is causing tightness in your throat, this is a sign of a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.
Additionally, you should make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience a high fever, chest pain, a stiff neck and a sore throat that gets worse or lasts longer than 48 hours.
When it comes to conditions like GERD or allergies, each has its own specific treatments that can help manage your symptoms, including throat tightness. These treatments may include:
- Over-the-counter antacids or antihistamines that you can find at Fort Wayne Custom Rx or other local pharmacies
- Making lifestyle changes like eliminating certain foods from your diet
- Prescription allergy medication
- Prescription medication like proton pump inhibitors to limit the amount of acid your stomach produces
Bottom Line
Any persistent throat tightness should be examined by a medical professional so that you can determine a cause and find the best treatment to eliminate your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists, call Ear, Nose & Throat Associates today.