Lump in throat that won't go away: is it reflux?

The sensation of a lump in the throat that isn't related to swallowing has a name — globus — and reflux is one of its most common causes, particularly silent reflux (LPR), where small amounts of acid reach the throat without causing typical heartburn. The irritation can cause the throat muscles to feel tight or swollen even when nothing is physically there. Globus from reflux tends to be more noticeable between meals, may ease while eating or drinking, and often comes with a mildly hoarse voice or the urge to clear your throat. Because the same sensation can have other causes — tension, thyroid issues, or muscle strain — a lump that persists for more than a couple of weeks is worth checking with a doctor rather than assuming it's reflux.