Persisting Throat Sensation Driving Me Insane
I am a 35-year-old female, approximately 200 pounds and standing at 6 feet tall. About three weeks ago, I began experiencing a frequent urge to yawn. I suspect the source of the issue is a peculiar feeling in my throat, akin to a tickling sensation. The only relief I find is through deep breathing or yawning, but unfortunately, the discomfort returns shortly afterwards. In response to the anxiety this has triggered, I increased my Lexapro dosage to 10mg. This adjustment was necessary as I found myself hyperventilating frequently while attempting to breathe deeply to alleviate the sensation. Interestingly, I’ve noticed that since this all began, I haven’t experienced any hiccups, though it may simply be a coincidence.
Answers (1)
12/15/2025, 2:40:36 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing a discomforting sensation in your throat that is leading to frequent yawning and anxiety. It's understandable that this is causing you significant distress. The symptoms you describe may be related to various factors, including anxiety, tension in your throat muscles, or potentially a postnasal drip or acid reflux.
Explanation:
The urge to yawn and the tickling sensation in your throat can often be linked to stress and anxiety, as heightened anxiety can lead to hyperventilation and discomfort. Your body may be responding to anxiety with physical symptoms, which can create a cycle of discomfort and increased anxiety.
Next Steps:
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Practice Relaxation Techniques: Focus on deep breathing exercises, but instead of deep breaths that may lead to hyperventilation, try slow and steady breathing (inhaling through your nose for a count of four, holding for four, and exhaling through your mouth for a count of four). This may help relieve tension without triggering more anxiety.
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Stay Hydrated: Make sure you are drinking enough water throughout the day. Sometimes, dryness can exacerbate throat discomfort.
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a note of when the sensation occurs, and if it worsens or improves in certain situations (like after meals, while lying down, or during periods of stress), as this can help identify triggers.
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Consider Dietary Changes: If you suspect acid reflux might be an issue, try eating smaller meals, avoiding spicy or acidic foods, and not lying down right after eating.
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Engage in Light Physical Activity: Gentle exercises like walking or stretching can help reduce tension and anxiety, which might alleviate some of the throat discomfort.
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Consultation about Medications: While you've adjusted your Lexapro dosage, make sure to monitor how you feel closely. If the anxiety or physical sensations persist or worsen, consider discussing these changes with your healthcare provider to explore other therapeutic options.
If your throat sensation persists or you experience new symptoms (like significant difficulty swallowing, a lump sensation, or severe pain), you may need further evaluation to rule out other conditions. Remember, taking care of your physical and emotional health is crucial, and these steps can help center your focus on alleviating your symptoms effectively.
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