What Causes A Tight Feeling In Throat And A Non-productive Cough?

Posted on Fri, 17 Jul 2015

Question: Almost two weeks since i noticed a tight feeling in my throat and a non productive cough. Throat seems to be getting worse like my airway is restricted and a little tough swallowing food. It is pretty much constant except at night when I wear my CPAP feels a bit better. There is no pain, just feels like someone has their hands around my neck. I did do some harsh chemical cleaning shortly before this started. Any ideas? Not sure what to do...but the breathing challenge is starting to make me feel a bit anxious at times.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Laryngopharyngeal reflux...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting this query

After going through the description, I am of opinion that you could be suffering from laryngopharyngeal reflux secondary to the acid reflux disease.

The symptoms do worsen while lying down because of easy flow of the gastric contents from the stomach into the throat.

Consult your doctor for a complete evaluation and management. You would require proton pump inhibitors with prokinetics, dietary and lifestyle modifications.

Hope I have answered your query; I'll be available for the follow up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (2 days later)

Hi. I forgot to mention that i am 5 day into taking meds for acid reflux as the walk in doc thought this as well. I am now on a steriod inhaler and it has been two day Clear lung xray. The tracheal area feel like there is something stuck or it is swollen. Still coughing and feels like it is hard to breathe. When i lay on my back it feel like my throat is colapsing. Very strange sensation.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (10 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Continue with the medicines for acidity...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for writing back

You need to continue with the medicines given for acidity, it will help in reducing the discomfort in the neck.

The sensation of throat collapse is due to regurgitation of acid contents into the throat causing edema of the mucosa.

The discomfort gets better with CPAP because the pressure induced inside the throat pushes down the regurgitated fluids.

Also drink plenty of warm water, you will definitely get better.

Hope this clears your doubts. Wish you good health.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad