Experiencing globus sensation, a persistent feeling of a lump or foreign body in the throat? Learn about abnormal feeling in the throat, also known as throat discomfort, including potential causes, diagnosis, and treatment options. This resource covers relevant information for healthcare professionals, including clinical documentation and medical coding related to globus pharyngeus and foreign body sensation in throat. Find reliable information to support accurate diagnosis and patient care.
Also known as
Other throat pain
Pain and other discomfort localized to the throat area.
Globus hystericus
Sensation of a lump in the throat without any physical findings.
Other somatoform disorders
Unexplained physical symptoms attributed to psychological factors, including throat sensations.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the sensation related to a known structural abnormality or physical obstruction?
Yes
Is it due to a specific condition (e.g., Zenker's diverticulum)?
No
Is the sensation related to a psychiatric disorder (e.g., anxiety)?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Feeling of lump or tightness in throat |
| Acid reflux causing throat irritation |
| Muscle tension causing throat tightness |
Coding R43.89 (Other symptoms and signs involving general sensation and perceptions) lacks specificity compared to diagnoses for known causes like reflux or anxiety.
Globus sensation can be a symptom of GERD, anxiety, or neurological issues. Failing to document and code the underlying cause impacts reimbursement and care.
Using varied terms like globus sensation, throat discomfort, or foreign body sensation without clear clinical support can lead to coding errors and audit scrutiny.
Q: What are the most effective diagnostic strategies for differentiating Globus Sensation from other causes of throat discomfort, such as esophageal dysmotility or laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), in a primary care setting?
A: Diagnosing Globus Sensation often begins with excluding other potential causes of throat discomfort. A thorough clinical history focusing on symptoms like dysphagia, odynophagia, heartburn, and voice changes is crucial. For example, intermittent dysphagia with solids suggests an esophageal motility disorder like achalasia, while chronic cough and hoarseness point towards LPR. Physical examination should include assessment of the oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx. In a primary care setting, a basic endoscopic examination (e.g., flexible laryngoscopy) can help visualize the larynx and rule out structural abnormalities or inflammation. If LPR is suspected, empirical treatment with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can be considered. If symptoms persist despite PPI therapy or if concerning findings emerge, referral to an otolaryngologist or gastroenterologist for further evaluation with procedures like esophageal manometry, barium swallow, or pH monitoring is warranted. Explore how multidisciplinary collaboration can improve diagnostic accuracy in challenging Globus Sensation cases.
Q: How can I approach the management of Globus Pharyngeus or foreign body sensation in the throat when initial diagnostic tests are negative, and the patient reports persistent anxiety or psychological stress?
A: When initial tests for Globus Pharyngeus, such as endoscopy and barium swallow, return negative, and the patient exhibits signs of anxiety or psychological stress, a multi-pronged approach is recommended. First, reassure the patient that Globus Sensation is a benign condition and that serious underlying pathology has been excluded. Explain the potential link between stress, muscle tension, and throat symptoms. Consider implementing relaxation techniques like diaphragmatic breathing or mindfulness exercises. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has shown promising results in managing Globus Pharyngeus related to anxiety and can be considered if stress management techniques are insufficient. Additionally, evaluate for any underlying psychiatric comorbidities like generalized anxiety disorder or depression, and if present, appropriate referral to a mental health professional should be made. Learn more about the interplay of psychological factors and Globus Sensation to provide comprehensive patient care.
Patient presents with a chief complaint of abnormal feeling in the throat, described as a globus sensation or foreign body sensation in throat. This throat discomfort is not associated with pain or dysphagia. Onset was gradual and the patient denies any history of trauma, recent infection, or known allergies. Review of systems is negative for dyspnea, odynophagia, hoarseness, and weight loss. Physical examination reveals normal oropharynx with no visible lesions or erythema. Neck palpation is unremarkable. The working diagnosis is globus pharyngeus, also known as globus hystericus or lump in throat. Differential diagnosis includes esophageal stricture, Zenker's diverticulum, and laryngopharyngeal reflux. Patient education was provided regarding the benign nature of globus sensation and potential contributing factors such as anxiety and stress. Conservative management with reassurance and lifestyle modifications, including stress reduction techniques, is recommended. Follow-up is scheduled in four weeks to assess symptom resolution. ICD-10 code R45.0 (Symptoms and signs involving the throat and chest) is considered. Further investigation with barium swallow or esophagogastroduodenoscopy may be warranted if symptoms persist or worsen.