Throat spasms are sudden, involuntary contractions of the throat muscles. These episodes cause feelings of tightness or a sensation of something being caught. While generally harmless, they can be uncomfortable and alarming. Understanding these spasms involves recognizing their nature as temporary muscle contractions.
Understanding Throat Spasms
When a throat spasm occurs, individuals often report a sensation of choking or constriction. This can feel like a tightening around the throat or a lump that cannot be swallowed, known as globus sensation. Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or pain may also occur. Discomfort can range from mild to severe, sometimes intensifying with stress.
Swallowing function is often preserved during a throat spasm, despite the feeling of restriction. Muscles like the cricopharyngeal muscle, which forms the upper esophageal sphincter, normally contract and relax to facilitate passage of food and liquid. A spasm indicates this muscle is contracting more than usual.
Common Causes of Throat Spasms
Various factors can contribute to throat spasms. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a frequent cause, as stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus irritates throat tissues and triggers spasms. This irritation can also lead to inflammation.
Anxiety and stress are also common contributors. These emotional states can cause physical muscle tension in the throat, perceived as a lump or tightness. This connection can create a cycle where spasms increase anxiety.
Cricopharyngeal spasm involves the involuntary over-contraction of the cricopharyngeus muscle, located at the top of the esophagus. This muscle normally prevents air and stomach acids from entering the esophagus, but over-contraction causes discomfort. Dehydration can also impair muscle function, contributing to spasms.
Environmental or consumed irritants can provoke spasms. Very hot or cold foods, spicy foods, and excessive coughing can irritate throat tissues. Certain medications may list throat spasms as a side effect, affecting muscle function or causing dryness. Allergic reactions can cause swelling and muscle tightening. Underlying neurological conditions, though less common, can also be a cause.
Managing Throat Spasms at Home
For occasional or mild throat spasms, several home management strategies offer relief. Dietary adjustments are helpful, especially if acid reflux is suspected. Avoid trigger foods like acidic, spicy, or fatty items. Opt for smaller, more frequent meals, and chew food thoroughly to ease swallowing.
Maintain adequate hydration for muscle function. Drinking enough water throughout the day prevents dryness and supports muscle relaxation. Warm beverages, such as water or certain teas, may also soothe throat muscles.
Stress reduction techniques help when anxiety contributes to spasms. Practices like deep breathing, meditation, or other relaxation exercises can calm the body and reduce muscle tension. Gently massaging the neck and throat may also relax muscles.
Avoid known irritants like very hot or cold drinks, overly spicy foods, smoke, or strong fumes. Over-the-counter antacid medications can neutralize stomach acid if reflux is a likely cause.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While many throat spasms are benign, certain signs warrant medical evaluation. Consult a healthcare provider if spasms are persistent, worsen, or significantly interfere with daily activities. Consistent difficulty swallowing solid foods is a concern, as it may indicate a more involved issue.
Other signs requiring medical assessment include unexplained weight loss, severe or continuous pain during swallowing, and any choking episodes where food or liquid enters the airway. Changes in voice or persistent hoarseness accompanying spasms should also be reported.
A doctor may conduct a physical examination and review medical history. Diagnostic procedures can help identify the cause, including endoscopy to visualize the throat and esophagus, or a barium swallow test to observe swallowing. Esophageal manometry, which measures muscle contractions, can also provide insights. These tests rule out other conditions and determine the appropriate course of action.