Q. Endoscopy showed nothing — why do I still feel something stuck?
Maehaekgi is a functional, not structural, problem, so endoscopy can't detect it. Pharyngeal muscle tension and sensory hypersensitivity are causes; herbs and acupuncture release tension and normalize sensation.
📝 Detailed Answer
That is a good question. That the endoscopy found nothing abnormal means there is no structural disease — not that there is no symptom.
A good many of the causes that produce a globus sensation are not visible on endoscopy. Tension in the muscles around the throat, a state where acid rises and irritates the mucosa, secretions running down from the nose, and heightened sensitivity are such causes.
So we do not dismiss it as 'in your mind' because the tests found nothing. There really is an uncomfortable sensation, and there are factors that can be addressed.
However, that the endoscopy found nothing is also important information. It means serious disease has been excluded, which is in itself a reason to be reassured. If you have the report, please bring it.
Expert Verified
Hyo-seop Kim
Chief Director