Queefing Causes: Understanding Vaginal Flatulence and Its Impact on Women’s Health
What are the common causes of vaginal flatulence. How does queefing affect women’s daily lives. Can vaginal flatulence be a sign of underlying health issues. What are the effective treatment options for managing vaginal flatulence. How can women prevent or reduce the occurrence of queefing.
The Science Behind Vaginal Flatulence: Demystifying Queefing
Vaginal flatulence, commonly known as queefing, is a natural bodily function that occurs when trapped air is released from the vagina. This phenomenon often produces a sound similar to anal flatulence but without the associated odor. Despite its prevalence, many women feel embarrassed or concerned about queefing, leading to unnecessary anxiety and discomfort.
Understanding the mechanics of vaginal flatulence can help alleviate these concerns. The vagina is a muscular canal that can expand and contract. During various activities, air can become trapped inside the vaginal canal and is subsequently expelled, resulting in the characteristic sound of queefing.
Is queefing a sign of poor hygiene?
No, queefing is not related to hygiene practices. It is a normal physiological process that occurs in women of all ages and backgrounds. Maintaining good personal hygiene is important for overall vaginal health, but it does not prevent or cause vaginal flatulence.
Common Triggers for Vaginal Flatulence: When Does Queefing Typically Occur?
Vaginal flatulence can happen in various situations, but certain activities and conditions are more likely to trigger it. Understanding these triggers can help women anticipate and manage queefing episodes more effectively.
- Sexual intercourse
- Inserting objects into the vagina (e.g., tampons, menstrual cups)
- Pelvic exams
- Certain exercise routines, especially those involving pelvic movements
- Pregnancy
- Menopause
During sexual activity, the in-and-out motion can push air into the vagina, which is later expelled as queefing. Similarly, exercises that involve changes in body position or pelvic floor engagement can lead to air becoming trapped and subsequently released.
Can certain exercises increase the likelihood of queefing?
Yes, some exercises are more likely to cause vaginal flatulence. Activities that involve frequent changes in position or those that engage the pelvic floor muscles, such as yoga, pilates, or cycling, may increase the chances of queefing. However, this should not discourage women from participating in these beneficial forms of exercise.
The Role of Pelvic Floor Anatomy in Vaginal Flatulence
The structure and strength of a woman’s pelvic floor can influence her susceptibility to vaginal flatulence. The pelvic floor consists of a group of muscles that support the pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. The strength and flexibility of these muscles can vary among individuals, affecting how easily air can become trapped and released from the vagina.
Women with stronger pelvic floor muscles may experience less frequent queefing, as their muscles are better able to control the opening and closing of the vaginal canal. Conversely, those with weaker pelvic floor muscles might find that air is more easily trapped and expelled.
How does childbirth affect pelvic floor strength and queefing?
Childbirth can significantly impact pelvic floor strength, potentially leading to increased instances of vaginal flatulence. The process of giving birth can stretch and weaken the pelvic floor muscles, making it easier for air to enter and exit the vagina. However, with proper postpartum care and exercises, many women can regain pelvic floor strength and reduce the frequency of queefing.
Distinguishing Between Vaginal Flatulence and Medical Concerns
While vaginal flatulence is generally harmless, in rare cases, it may be associated with underlying medical conditions. It’s crucial for women to be aware of the signs that might indicate a need for medical attention.
- Foul-smelling discharge accompanying the queefing
- Pain or discomfort during or after episodes of vaginal flatulence
- Frequent urinary tract infections
- Difficulty controlling bowel movements
- Sensation of pressure or fullness in the vagina
If any of these symptoms are present, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. In most cases, however, queefing is a benign occurrence that doesn’t require medical intervention.
Can vaginal flatulence be a symptom of pelvic organ prolapse?
While some studies have suggested a potential link between pelvic organ prolapse and increased vaginal flatulence, the evidence is inconclusive. Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when one or more pelvic organs drop from their normal position, potentially affecting the vaginal canal’s ability to retain air. If queefing is accompanied by a sensation of heaviness or pressure in the pelvic area, it may be worth discussing with a healthcare provider to rule out prolapse.
Strategies for Managing and Reducing Vaginal Flatulence
Although queefing is a normal bodily function, some women may wish to minimize its occurrence, particularly in certain social situations. While it’s not always possible to prevent vaginal flatulence entirely, there are strategies that may help reduce its frequency:
- Strengthening pelvic floor muscles through Kegel exercises
- Practicing mindful breathing during exercise to maintain core stability
- Experimenting with different sexual positions that may reduce air entry
- Using smaller-sized tampons or menstrual cups to minimize air introduction
- Avoiding rapid changes in position during yoga or other exercises
It’s important to note that these strategies may not eliminate queefing entirely, and women should not feel pressured to prevent a natural bodily function.
How effective are Kegel exercises in reducing vaginal flatulence?
Kegel exercises can be highly effective in strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, which may help reduce the frequency of vaginal flatulence. Regular practice of Kegels can improve muscle tone and control, potentially making it easier to prevent air from entering the vagina and to expel it more discreetly when necessary. However, results may vary among individuals, and it’s essential to perform Kegel exercises correctly for maximum benefit.
The Psychological Impact of Vaginal Flatulence: Addressing Stigma and Embarrassment
Despite the prevalence of vaginal flatulence, many women experience feelings of embarrassment or shame when queefing occurs, particularly during intimate moments or in public settings. This psychological burden can negatively impact self-esteem, sexual confidence, and overall quality of life.
Addressing the stigma surrounding queefing is crucial for promoting a healthier attitude towards this natural bodily function. Open communication with partners, friends, and healthcare providers can help normalize the experience and reduce anxiety associated with vaginal flatulence.
How can partners support women who experience queefing during intimate moments?
Partners can play a significant role in alleviating the embarrassment associated with queefing during intimate moments. By responding with understanding, humor, or simply ignoring the occurrence, partners can help create a more comfortable and accepting environment. Open communication about bodily functions and mutual reassurance can strengthen intimacy and reduce anxiety around queefing.
Vaginal Flatulence Across the Lifespan: From Puberty to Menopause
The experience of vaginal flatulence can vary throughout a woman’s life, influenced by hormonal changes, life events, and physical developments. Understanding how queefing may change across different life stages can help women better prepare for and manage this natural occurrence.
- Puberty: As young women begin to explore their bodies and become sexually active, they may encounter queefing for the first time.
- Reproductive years: Pregnancy and childbirth can significantly impact pelvic floor strength and the frequency of vaginal flatulence.
- Perimenopause and menopause: Hormonal changes can affect vaginal tissue elasticity, potentially influencing the occurrence of queefing.
Each life stage brings unique challenges and considerations when it comes to vaginal health and the experience of queefing. Women should feel empowered to discuss these changes with healthcare providers to ensure optimal vaginal health throughout their lives.
Does the frequency of vaginal flatulence typically increase during pregnancy?
Many women report an increase in vaginal flatulence during pregnancy. This can be attributed to several factors, including hormonal changes that relax pelvic floor muscles, increased blood flow to the pelvic area, and the growing uterus putting pressure on surrounding tissues. While this increase in queefing is generally harmless, pregnant women should discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider, especially if accompanied by other symptoms.
Understanding vaginal flatulence as a normal physiological process is crucial for women’s health and well-being. By demystifying queefing and addressing common concerns, we can promote a more positive and accepting attitude towards this natural bodily function. Remember that every woman’s experience with vaginal flatulence is unique, and what’s most important is maintaining overall vaginal health and seeking medical advice when necessary.
As research in women’s health continues to evolve, we may gain further insights into the mechanics and implications of vaginal flatulence. In the meantime, open dialogue and education remain key in supporting women through all aspects of their reproductive health, including the sometimes misunderstood phenomenon of queefing.
What Is Vaginal Flatulence? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
Medically Reviewed
Vaginal flatulence, also known as vaginal flatus, or queef, is an emission of trapped air from the vagina. Vaginal flatulence is both common and completely normal. It most frequently occurs during sexual activity or exercise.
Overwhelmingly, it doesn’t pose any gynecological health risks.
Signs and Symptoms of Vaginal Flatulence
Whether you call it a queef, a vaginal fart, vaginal gas, or even a “vart,” the passage of air through the vaginal canal produces a sound that’s similar to anal flatulence. But unlike a fart, a vaginal release of air doesn’t have a gassy odor.
Common Questions & Answers
What is a queef?
It’s the (very common) emission of trapped air from the vagina.
What causes vaginal farts?
Sexual intercourse, pelvic exams, exercise, pregnancy, and menopause can all cause vaginal farts. Sometimes the anatomical structure of your pelvic floor may make you more likely to expel trapped air from your vagina.
When should I worry about vaginal farts?
Vaginal flatulence is perfectly normal, but if it occurs with symptoms like bad-smelling vaginal discharge, frequent UTIs, irritation or pain in the area, or pain during sex, you should see a doctor.
How do you treat vaginal farts?
Since vaginal farts are common, there’s no need to treat them. On rare occasions, however, the flatulence is a sign of a medical issue, such as pelvic organ prolapse or rectovaginal fistulas. Surgery can treat both of those conditions.
Causes and Risk Factors of Vaginal Flatulence
Much of the information compiled on vaginal flatulence — especially on the internet — is anecdotal, and more research would likely offer us a better understanding of what might make some women more likely to queef. With that caveat in mind, there are a number of situations and factors associated with vaginal flatulence, including:
- Sexual Intercourse or Inserting an Object in the Vagina When something is inserted into the vagina, it can displace the air inside. It’s possible to experience vaginal flatulence during a pelvic exam, when a doctor inserts or removes a speculum.
- Exercise or Stretching Movements during exercise can cause air to become trapped inside the vagina. Women often report vaginal flatulence during certain physical activities, such as yoga.
- Pregnancy or Menopause Some women report more episodes of vaginal flatulence during pregnancy or menopause.
- Pelvic Floor Anatomy Everyone’s pelvic floor is slightly unique, and some may be more prone than others to expelling trapped air.
A rare cause of vaginal flatulence is a vaginal fistula. A fistula is an abnormal opening that connects the vagina to another organ, such as your bladder, colon, or rectum. If the fistula is connected to the colon or rectum, it can cause the passage of stool from the vagina. Childbirth, cancer treatments, injury, and certain surgical procedures can lead to the formation of a fistula, but again, it’s highly uncommon. See your doctor if your queefs smell bad, or if you notice an unusual discharge.
Diagnosis of Vaginal Flatulence
While there aren’t specific tests or procedures to determine if these air emissions are simply the occasional result of air escaping from the vagina, your doctor may perform a pelvic exam to rule out a more serious problem.
Duration of Vaginal Flatulence
A queef typically lasts a few seconds during or after sex or during exercise.
Treatment of Vaginal Flatulence
Because vaginal flatulence is a normal occurrence, there’s no need to treat it or seek a remedy for it.
But there may be times when queefing is associated with a medical issue that requires treatment.
Some research has found an association between pelvic organ prolapse and vaginal flatulence, but the evidence is lacking and inconsistent. Prolapse occurs when any of the pelvic organs drop down due to weakness in the supporting structures.
Childbirth and other conditions that put pressure on pelvic tissues can cause this.
If your vaginal flatulence happens to be associated with prolapse, treatment might involve using a pessary — a plastic or rubber circular device that fits into the vagina and supports tissues that were displaced by prolapse — and trying to strengthen your pelvic muscles by performing Kegel exercises.
To perform Kegels, squeeze the muscles you use to stop urinating. Hold this contraction for up to 10 seconds and then relax for 10 seconds, making sure to concentrate on contracting just your pelvic floor muscles, as opposed to your abdominal muscles as well. Try to work up to at least three sets of 10 to 15 repetitions each day. As a side note, do not do Kegels while urinating. This can cause insufficient emptying of the bladder, which can lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Depending on the severity of the prolapse, surgery may be necessary.
You should see your doctor if you have vaginal flatulence paired with more worrying symptoms including:
- Stool or pus coming from your vagina
- Vaginal discharge that smells bad or off
- Frequent vaginal or urinary tract infections
- Irritation or pain in vulva, vagina, or area between vagina and anus
- Pain during sex
If you have these symptoms, queefing could be a sign of a rectovaginal fistula — which is rare.
Prevention of Vaginal Flatulence
Queefs happen naturally during sex and exercise, and there may not be much you can do to prevent them. As far as sex goes, pay attention to whether or not certain positions make you queef more. But if you’re comfortable with your partner or partners, you’ll likely be able to laugh it off.
As mentioned above, if you’ve suffered a prolapse and it’s possibly causing you to queef, your doctor may recommend using a pessary.
Research and Statistics: Who Gets Vaginal Flatulence?
Any woman can experience vaginal flatulence. There is some research, however, that suggests certain women may be more prone to it. For instance, a meta-analysis of 15 studies on vaginal flatulence found that women who had delivered babies vaginally often reported occurrences of vaginal flatulence after the fact, but this certainly is not the only factor that can lead to vaginal flatulence.
Plenty of women who have never been pregnant experience vaginal flatulence, too. One study of nearly 1,000 women ages 18 to 80 found that women with low BMI and who are younger have more instances of vaginal flatulence.
Another study found that more than a third of women with pelvic floor disorders reported vaginal flatus (the involuntary passing of gas from the vagina).
Complications of Vaginal Flatulence
Vaginal flatulence itself doesn’t cause complications (aside from some possible embarrassment).
Related Conditions of Vaginal Flatulence
When you release gas through your digestive system — also known as farting — it sounds a lot like a queef. But the causes of intestinal gas and vaginal flatulence are different. Swallowing excessive air can cause farting; bacteria in the intestine produce gas when processing foods that pass into the colon before being digested higher up in the digestive tract; and rectal gas can be a side effect of some medications.
Resources We Love
Planned Parenthood
Planned Parenthood offers a wealth of reliable information about women’s health — from sexual and reproductive issues and concerns to questions about queefing.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
For trusted, evidence-based information from expert physicians, visit ACOG’s website, where you’ll find this FAQ on women’s sexual health, as well as sections geared toward teens, pregnancy, and healthy aging.
Additional reporting by Kaitlin Sullivan.
Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking
- Amarenco G, Turmel N, Chesnel C, et al. Vaginal Gas: Review. Progés en Urologie. December 2019.
- How Can I Prevent Queefing During Sex? It’s So Embarrassing! Planned Parenthood. April 24, 2020.
- Veisi F, Rezavand N, Zangeneh M, et al. Vaginal Flatus and the Associated Risk Factors in Iranian Women: A Main Research Article. ISRN Obstetrics and Gynecology. May 20, 2012.
- Neels H, Pacquée S, Shek K, et al. Is Vaginal Flatus Related to Pelvic Floor Functional Anatomy? International Urogynecology Journal. December 2020.
- Pelvic Support Problems. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. November 2021.
- Posterior Vaginal Prolapse (Rectocele): Symptoms and Causes. Mayo Clinic. August 10, 2022.
- Posterior Vaginal Prolapse (Rectocele): Diagnosis and Treatment. Mayo Clinic. August 10, 2022.
- Knuttinen M, Yi J, Magtibay J, et al. Colorectal-Vaginal Fistulas: Imaging and Novel Interventional Treatment Modalities. Journal of Clinical Medicine. April 22, 2018.
- Kegel Exercises: A How-To Guide for Women. Mayo Clinic. December 6, 2022.
- Rectovaginal Fistula. Mayo Clinic. January 13, 2023.
- Toxic Shock Syndrome: Symptoms and Causes. Mayo Clinic. March 23, 2022.
- Lau H, Su T, Chen Y, Huang W. The Prevalence of Vaginal Flatus in Women With Pelvic Floor Disorders and Its Impact on Sexual Function. The Journal of Sexual Medicine. March 2021.
- Gas (Flatulence). Harvard Health Publishing. July 1, 2019.
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Vaginal Gas: Causes, Prevention, and More
What is vaginal gas?
Vaginal gas, or “queefing,” is when air gets trapped inside the vagina. Once air is trapped, it will eventually be released from the vagina and can cause a sound similar to common flatulence from the rectum. It is typically a normal occurrence, and it is rarely a sign of a serious health concern. However, it can either be a passing occurrence, or it may be a symptom of a medical condition that will need to be treated. Let’s look at the causes and when you need to seek medical attention.
There are a number of different things that can cause vaginal gas. It is important to know the different causes, as some need to be addressed by a medical professional. Some of these causes include:
Sexual activity
Sexual activity is a common cause of vaginal gas. The movement of the penis in and out of the vagina can sometimes cause air to enter and then become trapped. When your muscles tense from an orgasm or when the penis is removed, the gas will then be released. This can cause a noise and feel like bubbles.
Oral sex can cause air to enter the vagina as well. Some forms of rough sex can cause vaginal gas, but they may also cause a spontaneous pneumoperitoneum, which is when air accumulates and gets trapped under your diaphragm. This can cause chest or upper abdominal pain.
Pelvic floor dysfunction
While vaginal noise is not one of the main symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, studies have shown that vaginal noise, similar to common flatus, can be a result of it.
Vaginal fistula
A vaginal fistula is an abnormal, hollow tract between your vagina and another internal abdominal or pelvic organ. They are a potential cause for vaginal gas that is not directly related to sexual activity. There are different types of vaginal fistulas. These types are based on where the hole or tear is in the vagina and which organ the tract connects to. Fistulas need to be addressed by a medical professional and treated.
The type of vaginal fistula seen most often is known as a vesicovaginal fistula. The hole for this type is between your urinary bladder and your vagina. The following is a list of the other types of fistulas and where the tear occurs in the vagina:
- Ureterovaginal fistula occurs between the vagina and ureter(s), which move urine to your bladder from your kidneys.
- Rectovaginal fistula occurs between the vagina and the rectum (near the end of the colon). This may happen during childbirth, but primarily occurs in developing countries without easy or any access to obstetric care. It can also be caused by pelvic surgery, pelvic cancer, radiation treatments around the pelvis to treat pelvic cancer, or from Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis (both are types of inflammatory bowel disease). This type of fistula can often cause vaginal gas, particularly when it occurs after childbirth.
- Enterovaginal fistula occurs between the small intestine and the vagina.
- Colovaginal fistula occurs between the colon and the vagina. This is a rare type of fistula and is most often caused by diverticular disease.
- Urethrovaginal fistula occurs between the vagina and the urethra, which is the tube that sends urine out of your body.
Vaginal gas is one symptom of a vaginal fistula. Other symptoms depend on the size and type of fistula that you have, but here are some symptoms to look for:
- loose stool leaking into your urine
- urine or vaginal discharge that has a strong unpleasant odor
- vaginitis or urinary tract infections that occur frequently
- incontinence, both fecal and urinary
- diarrhea
- discomfort or pain in and around the vagina and rectum
- painful sex
- nausea
- abdominal pain
There are not many things you can do to prevent vaginal gas. It is usually a symptom of other conditions or a natural occurrence during sexual activity. However, there are treatments and surgical procedures that can correct the cause. Even in vaginal gas that occurs due to sexual activity, there may be nonsurgical treatment options that might help stop it from happening.
Vaginal gas created during sexual activity is nothing to be concerned about. It’s not a symptom of a medical condition. However, if you’re experiencing vaginal gas at times that are not directly related to sexual activity you should see your doctor. Your doctor can determine if you have a vaginal fistula or whether another medical issue is causing it. Fistulas usually require surgery to repair. If they are not treated or repaired, they may lead to more serious complications if left untreated.
In most cases, vaginal gas can be eliminated when the underlying cause is treated. If a fistula is caught early enough or the hole or tear is very small, it may not require surgery to repair it. However, no matter the cause, it is important that you talk to your doctor if you’re having vaginal gas. This will allow your doctor to discover if it’s a symptom of a fistula or other medical condition that can be treated.
Lump in the throat – the causes of occurrence, in what diseases it occurs, diagnosis and methods of treatment
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The sensation of a lump in the throat is not uncommon. Many have experienced this painless but uncomfortable condition at least once in their lives. In medical literature, it is referred to as the pharyngeal ball. In most cases, this symptom is not associated with serious diseases, however, an accurate answer can only be obtained after consulting a specialist, because there are a number of diseases that may be accompanied by a sensation of a foreign body in the throat.
Varieties
There is no generally accepted classification. It all depends on the reason that caused this condition.
Possible causes of sensation of a lump in the throat
Patients complaining of a lump in the throat can be divided into two groups: in some, this condition occurs due to neuropsychiatric disorders, while in others, the cause lies in somatic, that is, diseases directly related to internal organs.
Often, a feeling of a lump in the throat appears in people who are easily excitable, sensitive to stress and emotional upheavals. A lump in the throat has long been described by doctors as a symptom of a neurotic disorder, more often occurring in young women. However, at present, this condition occurs with equal frequency in people of both sexes.
If the feeling of a lump in the throat is persistent and persists for several weeks, then first of all it is necessary to exclude oncopathology. This may be a malignant or benign process in the larynx, esophagus or other organs of the neck, causing compression of surrounding tissues. Particular attention should be shown if the patient complains of pain in the neck or when swallowing, fatigue, loss of appetite and body weight.
Infectious and inflammatory diseases of the ENT organs can also cause a pharyngeal ball.
Very often the sensation of a lump in the throat is associated with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
It is necessary to find out if the patient has symptoms such as heartburn, cough, sour belching, stomach pain and a feeling of heaviness after eating.
The sensation of a foreign body in the throat can be caused by thyroid disease. An increase in the volume of the gland is more often associated with a lack of iodine in the diet or with an autoimmune lesion (autoimmune thyroiditis).
Sometimes the reason for the sensation of a lump in the throat is a decrease and even complete cessation of salivation.
This condition can occur in patients with diabetes mellitus, in women in menopause, with systemic autoimmune diseases.
Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck can also lead to discomfort and a sensation of a lump in the throat.
Difficulty in swallowing can sometimes occur due to osteochondrosis of the cervical spine. In this case, a person may be disturbed by headache, dizziness, pain in the neck, back, stiffness of movements.
Do not forget about the possible role of traumatic effects on tissues. Endoscopic examinations and even eating rough food can contribute to the appearance of discomfort in the throat.
Sensation of a lump in the throat is mainly accompanied by:
- Diseases of the ENT organs (tonsillitis, tonsillitis, epiglottitis, pharyngitis).
- Diseases of the thyroid gland (endemic goiter, diffuse toxic goiter, autoimmune thyroiditis).
- Neoplasms in the neck.
- Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
- Esophageal dyskinesia.
- Heterotopia of the gastric mucosa.
- Diseases of the endocrine system (diabetes mellitus, hormonal disorders).
- Systemic autoimmune diseases (scleroderma, Sjögren’s syndrome).
- Psychological factors, stress.
Which doctors to contact
a general practitioner who, after examination, will be able to refer the patient to a narrow specialist, such as:
- gastroenterologist;
- otorhinolaryngologist;
- endocrinologist;
- oncologist;
- neurologist;
- psychotherapist.
Diagnosis
To clarify the diagnosis, the doctor may prescribe the following types of examination:
- Gastroscopy (esophagogastroduodenoscopy, endoscopy) for suspected gastroesophageal disease and esophageal dyskinesia.
- Ultrasound of the thyroid gland, blood test for thyroid hormones.
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- X-ray of the cervical spine.
- Culture of upper respiratory tract discharge for microflora, determination of sensitivity to antimicrobial drugs and bacteriophages (in case of an infectious process, sputum culture and scraping of epithelial cells of the oropharynx may be required to identify the pathogen in order to prescribe adequate antibiotic therapy).
Culture of the upper respiratory tract for microflora, determination of sensitivity to antimicrobial drugs and bacteriophages (Upper Respiratory Culture, Routine. Bacteria Identification. Antibiotic Susceptibility and Bacteriophage Efficiency testing)
Synonyms: Upper Respiratory Culture, Routine. Bacteria Identification. Antibiotic Susceptibility and Bacteriophage Efficiency testing.
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Careful collection of anamnesis (history of the disease), taking into account the patient’s complaints, examination and additional research will help the doctor make the correct diagnosis.
Treatment
Based on the cause of the feeling of lump in the throat, the doctor will prescribe the appropriate treatment. If the cause is psycho-emotional disorders, it is necessary to eliminate the traumatic factor, reduce stress at home and at work. You may need pharmacological therapy and consultations with a psychotherapist.
In case of diagnosing gastroesophageal reflux disease, a gastroenterologist will give recommendations on correcting the diet and diet, prescribe antacids to reduce stomach acidity and proton pump inhibitors that suppress the secretory function of the stomach.
In case of infection of the upper respiratory tract, an otorhinolaryngologist may prescribe local anti-inflammatory, antiseptic therapy and antibacterial drugs.
In case of thyroid diseases, an endocrinologist may recommend hormonal therapy, and in some cases, surgery.
What to do if you feel a lump in your throat
If the sensation of a lump in your throat is caused by stress, try to calm down. Drinking plenty of water can improve the condition.
Do not smoke, talk loudly, shout.
If the cause is gastroesophageal reflux disease, do not lie down immediately after eating.
Do not overeat, try to stick to fractional nutrition; The last meal should be 3 hours before bedtime.
Do not wear tight clothing and tight belts, corsets, bandages, leading to an increase in intra-abdominal pressure. Stop smoking and drinking alcohol.
Sources:
- Clinical guidelines “Acute tonsillitis and pharyngitis (Acute tonsillopharyngitis)”. Developed by: National Medical Association of Otorhinolaryngologists, Interregional Public Organization “Alliance of Clinical Chemotherapists and Microbiologists”, Union of Pediatricians of Russia, Interregional Association for Clinical Microbiology and Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, Euro-Asian Society for Infectious Diseases. – 2021.
- Clinical guidelines “Acute obstructive laryngitis [croup] and epiglottitis”. Developed by: Union of Pediatricians of Russia, Interregional Association for Clinical Microbiology and Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, National Medical Association of Otorhinolaryngologists. – 2021.
IMPORTANT!
The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.
For a correct assessment of the results of your analyzes over time, it is preferable to do studies in the same laboratory, since different laboratories may use different research methods and units of measurement to perform the same analyzes.
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- Top 10 causes of death in the world
In 2019, the top 10 causes of death accounted for 55% of the world’s 55. 4 million deaths.
The main causes of death in the world are associated with three large groups of diseases: cardiovascular (ischemic heart disease, stroke), respiratory (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lower respiratory tract infections) and neonatal pathological
conditions (asphyxia of newborns and birth trauma, sepsis and other infectious diseases of newborns, as well as complications of preterm birth) (in descending order of the total number of deaths).
Causes of death can be classified into three categories: transmissible (infectious and parasitic diseases, as well as pathological conditions during pregnancy, childbirth and feeding), non-communicable diseases (chronic) and injuries.
Leading causes of death worldwide
Globally, in 2019, noncommunicable diseases accounted for seven of the ten leading causes of death. These seven causes accounted for 44% of the total number of deaths and 80% of the deaths caused by the top ten causes of death.
At the same time, all non-communicable diseases combined accounted for 74% of deaths recorded in the world in 2019
The most common cause of death is coronary heart disease, accounting for 16% of total deaths worldwide. The greatest increase in mortality since 2000 was due to this disease: by 2019, mortality from it increased by more than 2 million cases and reached 8.9 million cases. Stroke and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are the second and third leading causes of death, accounting for approximately 11% and 6% of total deaths, respectively.
Lower respiratory tract infections remain the fourth leading cause of death in the world, and the first among infectious diseases. However, the death rate from such infections has declined significantly: in 2019 it was 2.6 million cases, which is 460 thousand less than in 2000.
Neonatal pathological conditions rank fifth. At the same time, global mortality from these conditions over the past two decades has shown one of the most pronounced declines in absolute terms: in 2019They killed 2 million newborns and young children, 1. 2 million fewer than in 2000.
Mortality from non-communicable diseases is on the rise. Cancer of the trachea, bronchi and lungs showed an increase in mortality from 1.2 million to 1.8 million cases and ranked sixth among the leading causes of death.
Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia were the seventh leading cause of death in 2019. Women are especially susceptible to these diseases. They account for 65% of deaths from Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia in the world.
Globally, deaths from intestinal infections have dropped significantly, from 2.6 million in 2000 to 1.5 million in 2019.
Diabetes has become one of the top ten causes of death, with a significant increase in mortality since 2000 – by 70%. Among men, the increase was even greater, by 80%, the largest increase in deaths for men since 2000 among the top ten causes of death.
Other diseases, which were among the top ten causes of death in 2000, have been removed from this list. One of them was HIV/AIDS. Over the past 20 years, mortality from this disease has fallen by 51%, as a result of which, from eighth place, which it occupied in 2000, in 2019g. it moved to the nineteenth.
Kidney diseases have risen from thirteenth to tenth place. Mortality from these diseases increased from 813,000 in 2000 to 1.3 million in 2019. Gross national income is divided into four groups: low, lower middle, upper middle and high income.
In low-income countries, communicable diseases significantly outnumber non-communicable diseases as causes of death. Despite a global decline in deaths from infectious diseases, they account for six out of 10 deaths in low-income countries.
Malaria, tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS remain among the top ten causes of death in these countries. At the same time, mortality from these three diseases shows a significant decrease. HIV/AIDS showed the largest decline in mortality among the top ten causes in these countries: from 395,000 cases in 2000 to 161,000 in 2019, i. e. by 59%.
Intestinal infections are a larger cause of death in low-income countries and are among the top five causes. However, these infections show the second largest decrease in mortality among the top ten causes in these countries, by 231,000 cases.
Mortality from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in low-income countries is negligible compared to countries in other groups. In low-income countries, the disease is not among the top ten causes of death, while it is in the top five in all other country groups.
Lower middle-income countries show the most heterogeneous set of top ten causes of death: five non-communicable diseases, four communicable diseases and injuries. In this group of countries, the importance of diabetes is growing: it has moved from 15th place to ninth, the number of deaths from this disease has almost doubled since 2000.
In this group of countries, enteric infections continue to be a major problem among the top ten causes of death. However, this category of diseases is characterized by the most significant decrease in the absolute number of deaths, which from 2000 to 2019decreased from 1.9 million to 1.1 million cases. The largest increase in the absolute number of deaths is associated with ischemic heart disease: since 2000, it has increased by more than a million, reaching 3.1 million cases. Of the top ten causes of death in the previous list in 2000, HIV/AIDS has seen the largest decline in mortality, moving from 8th to 15th place.
Upper middle-income countries saw a marked increase in lung cancer deaths, up by 411,000; this is more than double the increase in mortality in all three other country groups combined. In addition, upper-middle-income countries have a high mortality rate from gastric cancer compared to other groups of countries; this is the only group of countries where the disease continues to be among the top ten causes of death.
One of the most notable reductions in the absolute number of deaths is from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, with a decrease of nearly 264,000 deaths to 1. 3 million. At the same time, deaths from coronary heart disease increased by more than 1.2 million cases, which is the largest increase in the absolute number of deaths from this cause among all groups of countries.
Only one infectious disease (lower respiratory tract infection) is among the top ten causes of death in upper middle-income countries. It is noteworthy that since 2000, suicide deaths in this category of countries have decreased by 31%, to 234,000 cases in 2019.d.
In high-income countries, deaths from all but two of the 10 major diseases are rising. Ischemic heart disease and stroke are the only causes of death among the top ten for which the total number of deaths in 2000-2019 decreased by 16% (or 327,000 cases) and 21% (or 205,000 cases) respectively. The only group of countries that has seen a decline in deaths from these two diseases is the group of high-income countries. However, coronary heart disease and stroke remain among the top three causes of death in countries in this group: in 2019they caused the death of a total of more than 2. 5 million people. In addition, mortality from hypertensive heart disease is on the rise. Following a global trend, this disease has risen from 18th to 9th place in the list of leading causes of death.
Deaths from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia have risen to overtake stroke to become the second leading cause of death in high-income countries, killing 814,000 people in 2019. And, as in upper-middle-income countries, only one category of infectious diseases, lower respiratory tract infections, was among the top ten causes of death.
Why do we need to know the causes of death?
Knowing why people die is necessary in order to improve the lives of the population. Determining how many people die each year helps us evaluate the effectiveness of our health systems and direct resources where they are needed most. For example, mortality data can help focus efforts and resources in sectors such as transport, agri-food, environment and health.
Under conditions of COVID-19 infectionthe urgent need for countries to invest in strengthening civil registration and vital registration systems to ensure that deaths are recorded daily, as well as direct prevention and treatment measures, has become clear. This environment has also exposed the fragmented data collection systems that characterize most low-income countries, where policymakers still lack accurate information about how many people die and for what reasons.
To address this critical gap, WHO, in collaboration with global partners, launched the COVID-19 Loss Identification: Technical Mortality Recording and Epidemic Response Package. With the help of the project’s tools and guidance on live mortality reporting, countries are able to collect data on total deaths by day, week, gender, age and location, which will allow health officials to initiate health improvement actions more timely.
In addition, the World Health Organization is developing standards and best practices for data collection, processing and aggregation based on the consolidated and improved International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11), a digital platform that facilitates timely and accurate cause-of-death data that provides countries with the ability to regularly generate and use health information that meets international standards.