What Causes Periodic Discomfort In The Throat?

Hi, I m 48 year old male, 165 pounds, 5 8 ; generally good health, no known existing medical conditions. Have been experiencing discomfort in throat for about 2 years. Initially, periodic, thought cold, then possible new allergy, but symptoms persist and are now persistent. Non smoker/tobacco user. I do drink a lot of coffee, 8-10 cups daily. Symptoms: mild to moderate discomfort; primarily feels like there is a lump in my throat at or just behind Adam s apple; cough mostly in morning, now more frequent; some mucus involved, but not much, does feel like there is mucus in throat at Adam s apple; cough can lead to gagging; more pronounced during regular cold; also noticed mild issue with swallowing certain foods, like raw carrots, for example. Also, have noted increase in heartburn during last month or so, which has never been a real problem for me.