The sensation of a cake in the throat is characterized by a discomfort in the throat that in some cases can cause difficulty in breathing. This symptom can occur for several distinct reasons and in some cases it is very important to seek medical help in order to avoid complications.
The most common factors that can cause sore throat sensation are:
1. Stress and anxiety
Emotional reactions such as stress and anxiety can cause symptoms such as a sore throat, nausea and vomiting, chest tightness, muscle tension or tremors. Learn to recognize the symptoms of anxiety.
How to relieve
To relieve this sensation caused by anxiety, one can resort to relaxation techniques like yoga or mindfulness, the help of a therapist or even a doctor who can prescribe soothing remedies
2. Gastroesophageal reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux consists of the return of the contents of the stomach into the esophagus, towards the mouth, which can cause pain, burning and inflammation and a sensation of cake in the throat. The intensity of the symptoms depends on the acidity of the contents of the stomach and the amount of acid that comes in contact with the mucosa. Learn more about gastroesophageal reflux and how to treat it.
How to relieve
To reduce the pain and discomfort that the acid causes in the throat, treatment usually consists of administration of acid-producing medicines such as omeprazole or esomeprazole or antacids such as aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide and sodium bicarbonate.
3. Thyroid problems
The thyroid gland is located in the neck and so pain may be felt at this site when a lump or lump is identified in the neck region and the thyroid gland may be functioning.
How to relieve
If the throat bolus occurs due to thyroid problems, the best thing to do is consult the endocrinologist, who will advise the most appropriate treatment
4. Glottal edema
Also known as angioedema of the larynx, it may arise in case of a severe allergic reaction, which is characterized by a swelling in the throat region, causing the throat cake sensation and difficulty breathing.
How to relieve
In case of edema of the glottis one must go immediately to the medical urgency. Get to know first aid to act in this situation.
5. Myasthenia Gravis
Myasthenia Gravis is a disease that can cause, among other symptoms, weakness of the neck muscles that leave the head hanging forward or to the side. This change in muscle strength can sometimes cause a sore throat sensation.
How to relieve
The treatment for myasthenia gravis consists of the use of medicines that allow greater control of the muscles and the accomplishment of surgery to remove the thymus, which in some cases can improve the quality of life of the patient. Learn more about treatment.
6. Myotonic dystrophy
Myotonic dystrophy is a genetic disease characterized by difficulty in relaxing muscles after a contraction, and the muscles most affected are those of the face, neck, hands, feet and forearms. Thus, it is likely that people with this disease have a sore throat sensation.
How to relieve
Treatment for myotonic dystrophy may include the use of medications such as phenytoin, quinine, procainamide or nifedipine, which relieve muscle stiffness and pain caused by illness and physical therapy, which leads to increased muscle strength. See what types of myotonic dystrophy and how the treatment is done.
7. Cancer
In more severe cases, the sensation of a ball in the throat may be due to cancer of the neck. Generally, if you have cancer of the neck, you may still feel a lump in this region, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, frequent choking, weight loss and general malaise.
How to relieve
If the cause of a sore throat is a tumor, the doctor should perform the treatment taking into account the stage of the cancer and the medical history of each person.
