Globus: a practical guide for general practice

Published Date: 08th May 2025

Publication Authors: Chopra. R

Abstract
Globus, Latin for globe or ball, is a common and frequently frustrating symptom in primary care. Patients describe it as a sensation of a lump or foreign body in the throat, often worse on dry or empty swallow, despite the absence of a physical obstruction or actual dysphagia. Patients may describe it in other ways, such as a frog, hair, phlegm, or catarrh stuck in the throat. Although typically benign, it can be distressing and lead to specialist referrals to reassure patients and clinicians. Given its symptom overlap with serious conditions such as malignancy or neuromuscular disorders, primary care clinicians must be adept at distinguishing benign globus sensation from concerning sinister pathology. This article provides an up-to-date, practical guide to diagnosing and managing globus in primary care.

Watson, A; Chopra. R; Muddaiah, A. (2025). Globus: a practical guide for general practice. British Journal of General Practice. 75(754), pp.237-238. [Online]. Available at: https://doi.org/10.3399/bjgp25X741573 [Accessed 8 May 2025]

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