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- $Unique_ID{BRK00746}
- $Pretitle{}
- $Title{What is Globus Hystericus?}
- $Subject{swallow throat globus hystericus Mental Emotional Conditions
- condition Ill Defined Symptoms symptom tongue lump}
- $Volume{E-11, N-11}
- $Log{}
-
- Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
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- What is Globus Hystericus?
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- QUESTION: My doctor tells me that I suffer from globus hystericus. I have
- never heard of this condition and would like to know more about it. I
- understand that it is related to stress in some way.
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- ANSWER: When a patient experiences a sensation of being "all choked up"
- during moments of stress, grief, of even events that may elicit pride and
- happiness, it is considered a normal reaction. However when someone
- experiences a sensation of a mass or lump in the throat, without physical
- cause but during certain emotional states, it is given the name of "globus
- hystericus". There are no specific causes related to this condition, but it
- must be carefully distinguished from other conditions which can provoke a
- similar sensation. With globus, even when the sensation is present, the
- patient can swallow normally, and frequently the symptom may be relieved by
- eating or drinking. You can further check on the diagnosis by obtaining
- special x-rays which show the passage of food down the esophagus, and other
- studies which calculate the pressures developed in the esophagus during the
- descent of a bolus (small rounded mass of food) from the mouth to the stomach.
- There are no serious complications from your condition. You should experience
- no pain or weight loss, but a careful evaluation of your emotional state
- during these occasions may help you overcome your problem.
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-
- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
- the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
- doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
- problem.
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