WHY does stress cause a lump in the throat?

 The body's autonomic nervous system (ANS) plays a significant role in our response to stressful situations, with the system working independently of our conscious control. When we experience stress, the ANS kicks in, attempting to oxygenate the body by increasing our breathing rate and expanding the vocal cleft in the throat, allowing air to pass more quickly.

This process can often result in the feeling of a lump in the throat, which is caused by muscular resistance when trying to swallow. While this sensation can be uncomfortable, it is a natural response to stress and typically subsides as the stressor is removed.

Understanding the role of the ANS in our response to stress can help us better manage our reactions in challenging situations. By recognizing the physiological changes taking place in our bodies, we can take steps to regulate our breathing and calm our minds, reducing the impact of stress on our overall well-being.