A burning or choking sensation in the throat, as if something is stuck, is a common symptom. It can be accompanied by dryness, heat, constant throat clearing, or discomfort when swallowing saliva.

Dr. Nguyen Hoang Oanh, a specialist in internal gastroenterology at Tam Anh General Clinic, District 7, notes that persistent, recurring symptoms that do not resolve with treatment may indicate an underlying condition.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the most common cause. Stomach acid refluxes into the esophagus and up to the throat, causing burning, a feeling of obstruction, dry throat, a dry cough, or hoarseness. Symptoms often worsen when lying down immediately after eating, bending over, or waking up in the morning.

Esophageal candidiasis is an inflammation of the esophageal lining caused by Candida fungus. It commonly affects individuals with weakened immune systems, diabetes, or those on prolonged antibiotic or corticosteroid therapy. Inflammatory lesions and fungal plaques on the esophageal lining impede food passage, leading to difficulty and pain when swallowing. Patients may experience a burning sensation behind the breastbone or discomfort spreading to the throat. Symptoms are often more pronounced when swallowing solid foods and typically improve after specific antifungal treatment.

Dr. Oanh consults with a patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Esophageal motility disorders result from asynchronous or excessive contractions of the esophageal smooth muscle, increasing pressure within the esophageal lumen and stimulating sensory receptors. Patients often report transient choking, tightness in the upper neck and chest, sometimes unrelated to eating or drinking. Diagnosis relies on high-resolution esophageal manometry (HRM) and 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring.

Eosinophilic esophagitis involves an immune reaction that causes mucosal swelling, fibrosis, and motility dysfunction, leading to a sensation of throat obstruction and burning. According to Dr. Oanh, an esophageal biopsy may be ordered to diagnose this condition.

Barrett's esophagus is a condition where the esophageal lining changes due to prolonged chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease. Simple Barrett's esophagus typically does not cause specific symptoms; however, if a patient also has chronic inflammation, ulcers, or secondary esophageal stricture, they may experience difficulty swallowing, a feeling of obstruction, and a burning sensation in the throat.

Inflammatory conditions of the throat, such as chronic pharyngitis, tonsillitis, or prolonged rhinosinusitis, can cause post-nasal drip that irritates the throat, leading to a burning, obstructed, and uncomfortable sensation. Patients often also experience dry throat, phlegm, sore throat, or bad breath.

A burning sensation in the throat can also occur in individuals with throat tumors, upper esophageal diverticula, thyroid goiter, or esophageal stricture. Anxiety and stress can cause throat muscles to tense, increasing discomfort and prolonging the burning sensation.

If a burning sensation in the throat persists for several weeks, recurs frequently, and does not improve after dietary and lifestyle adjustments, patients should seek medical examination for proper diagnosis. Self-medication is not advisable, as it may worsen the condition.

Thao Nhi