For The Past Seven Years, I Have Been Experiencing A

Posted on Mon, 26 Nov 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 Answered on

Last reviewed on

Question : For the past seven years, I have been experiencing a constant urge to swallow, mild throat pain, a feeling of a lump in a throat, and a clicking sound when I swallow. I also

I have had a barium swallow test and 24-hour esophageal pH test that ruled out acid reflux. I also had an exploratory surgery that ruled out any major physical problems. When I was taking Lexapro, it helped with the constant swallowing.

Is there any other area that could be causing my symptoms that I should explore with my ENT?

Answered by Dr. Ramesh Kumar (41 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Can be anxiety related.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome to 'Ask A Doctor' service.
I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.
As most of the tests related to gastroenterology/Throat are normal and considering the fact that taking SSRI helps you i would rather suggest you to consult a neurologist.Some times due to anxiety autonomous nerves in esophagus are stimulated hence causing spasms.
So adding a mild anti anxiety medication with SSRI you are on can be very effective.

I would suggest you to consult a neurologist and not an ENT.

Hope i was helpful,
Thanks!

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Remy Koshy

Follow up: Dr. Ramesh Kumar (21 minutes later)

Thanks! Is there a specific test a neurologist can perform to figure out if my nerves are causing spasms?

Answered by Dr. Ramesh Kumar (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Yes.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
They can do a MRI scan or even a PET scan to see the functions of nerves.
Thanks

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana

Follow up: Dr. Ramesh Kumar (5 hours later)

Thanks! Are there any lifestyle changes I should make while I wait to see the neurologist (in terms of diet, exercise, etc.) that be helpful?

Answered by Dr. Ramesh Kumar (19 hours later)

Brief Answer:
follow up.

Detailed Answer:
Hello again,
Take light and easily digestible food.
Avoid spicy and junk food.
No smoking or alcohol.
Eat lots of fruit and green vegetables.
Follow up with reports!
Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj