Robert W. Bastian, M.D.
Brent E. Richardson, M.D.
Lori L. Sonnenberg, M.M. (voice), M.A., CCC-SLP
W. Nathan Waller, M.M. (voice), M.A., CCC-SLP
Michele R. Denemark, M.A., CCC-SLP
Michele C. Simler, M.S., CCC-SLP
3010 Highland Parkway Suite 550
Downers Grove, IL
60515
Cricopharyngeus Spasm:
A Troubling Feeling of a Lump in the Throat
Cricopharyngeus spasm is caused by
over-contraction of the upper esophageal sphincter, or cricopharyngeus
muscle, and causes an annoying, preoccupying, even anxiety-provoking
sensation of something stuck in the throat, like a “wad
of phlegm.” A common description is “There is
something in my throat that I can’t swallow or spit
out.” Individuals with this problem often have difficulty
getting a clear diagnosis, and may see several physicians
and undergo unnecessary and unhelpful tests in their quest
for an answer. Sometimes also called “globus sensation,”
this disorder is described and explained in detail.
