Does Benadryl Help with Globus Sensation?

Globus sensation, also known as globus pharyngeus or the “lump in the throat” feeling, is a common condition that causes discomfort and difficulty swallowing. It can be caused by a variety of factors such as stress, acid reflux, allergies, and even anxiety.

Benadryl is a brand name for diphenhydramine, an antihistamine medication commonly used to treat allergies and cold symptoms. But can it also help with globus sensation? Let’s dive into the research to find out.

Understanding Globus Sensation

Before we discuss whether Benadryl can help with globus sensation, it’s important to understand the condition itself.

Globus sensation is a persistent feeling of something being stuck in your throat, even though there is nothing physically obstructing it. It can also be accompanied by difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, and a tightness in the throat.

As mentioned, globus sensation can be caused by various factors. Some of the common causes include:

Stress and anxiety
Acid reflux
Allergies
Muscle tension in the throat and neck area
Post-nasal drip
Smoking or other irritants
Thyroid disorders

What is Benadryl?

Benadryl, scientifically known as diphenhydramine, is an antihistamine widely used to relieve symptoms of allergies, such as runny nose, sneezing, and itching. It functions by inhibiting histamine, a substance released by the body during an allergic reaction.

Diphenhydramine is also employed as a sleep aid due to its sedative properties and can help alleviate motion sickness. However, it’s crucial to use Benadryl with caution, as it can cause side effects like drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, and blurred vision.

The Connection Between Benadryl and Globus Sensation

Now, back to the main question: can this medication help with globus sensation?

The answer is both yes and no. While Benadryl may provide relief for some people with globus sensation, it’s not a recommended treatment for this condition.

The reason behind its potential effectiveness lies in its antihistamine properties. When allergies or post-nasal drip cause globus sensation, Benadryl can help reduce the inflammation and mucus production that contribute to the feeling of a lump in the throat.

However, if anxiety, stress, or acid reflux are causing your globus sensation, taking Benadryl won’t have any effect on these underlying factors. In fact, using Benadryl as a long-term solution may mask the symptoms and delay proper treatment for these conditions.

Also Read: Does Ibuprofen Help With Globus Sensation?

Research and Studies

There is limited research specifically examining the effectiveness of Benadryl for globus sensation. However, a study published in BMJ Open Gastroenterology found that diphenhydramine was helpful in reducing symptoms of “throat clearing” caused by post-nasal drip.

Another small study looked at the effect of antihistamines, including Benadryl, on globus sensation in patients with allergies. The results showed a significant improvement in throat discomfort after taking an antihistamine for two weeks.

However, it’s worth noting that these studies have limitations, including small sample sizes and lack of control groups. More research is needed to determine the effectiveness of Benadryl for globus sensation conclusively.

Potential Risks and Precautions

When considering Benadryl for globus sensation, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions. Here are some important points to remember:

1. Side Effects: Benadryl can cause various side effects, such as drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, blurred vision, and constipation.

2. Dependency: Long-term use of Benadryl can lead to dependency and tolerance, making it less effective over time.

3. Interaction with Other Medications: Benadryl can interact with other medications you may be taking, potentially leading to adverse effects.

4. Underlying Causes: Using Benadryl for globus sensation might mask the symptoms without addressing the underlying cause, such as anxiety, stress, or acid reflux.

5. Children and Elderly: Special caution is needed when administering Benadryl to children and the elderly, as they are more susceptible to its side effects.

6. Driving and Operating Machinery: Due to its sedative properties, avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, after taking Benadryl.

Alternative Treatments for Globus Sensation

If Benadryl is not suitable or effective for addressing globus sensation, there are several alternative treatments that may provide relief:

1. Hydration: Drinking plenty of water can help reduce throat irritation and improve mucus consistency.

2. Stress Management: Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and yoga can help reduce stress and anxiety, which are common causes of globus sensation.

3. Voice Therapy: Working with a speech therapist can help identify and correct any muscle tension in the throat and neck area.

4. Dietary Changes: Avoiding foods that trigger acid reflux, such as spicy or fatty foods, caffeine, and alcohol, can help reduce symptoms.

5. Postural Adjustments: Improving posture, especially during and after meals, can help minimize pressure on the throat.

6. Over-the-Counter Antacids: For those experiencing acid reflux, antacids or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can help manage symptoms.

Also Read: Can Xanax Alleviate Globus Sensation?

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Benadryl may provide temporary relief for some people with globus sensation, it’s not a recommended treatment. It’s essential to address the underlying causes of this condition and be cautious when using Benadryl due to its potential risks and side effects. Consult your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and personalized treatment options for globus sensation.

FAQs

Do antihistamines help with globus?

Yes, antihistamines can help with globus sensation in certain cases. When the sensation is caused by allergies or post-nasal drip, antihistamines like Benadryl can reduce inflammation and mucus production, providing relief. However, their effectiveness varies depending on the underlying cause of the globus sensation.

Can Benadryl be used for long-term treatment of globus sensation?

No, Benadryl is not recommended for long-term treatment of globus sensation. While it may provide temporary relief in cases related to allergies or post-nasal drip, using Benadryl over an extended period can lead to dependency, tolerance, and side effects.

Are there any natural remedies for relieving globus sensation?

Yes, there are several natural remedies that may help relieve the globus sensation. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day can soothe throat irritation. Engaging in stress-reducing activities such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises can alleviate anxiety and muscle tension in the throat.

Does Benadryl reduce inflammation?

Benadryl does not directly reduce inflammation. Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is primarily an antihistamine that alleviates allergic symptoms by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body responsible for causing these reactions.

While it can help reduce symptoms related to allergies, such as itching and swelling, its anti-inflammatory effects are minimal compared to other medications specifically designed to reduce inflammation, such as corticosteroids.