I feel a pressure on the cartilage in my throat, any ideas what it can be?

I’ve been having a strange sensation in my throat since November of 2016. At first, I thought it was a stomach virus since I was feeling very nauseous during that time. However, when the nausea stopped, I was left with a feeling of throat tightness. I didn’t vomit during that time. It has now been a year, and I feel it occasionally on and off. Sometimes it’s possible to ignore, but other times it’s very strong. It feels like I’m pressing my fingers on the cartilage in my throat (where the Adams Apple would be on a male) and the tight sensation can be felt up to my tongue. It’s not as common, but another symptom I feel is a sort of spasm at the back of my throat. The best way to describe it is the sensation you feel when you are about to gag. But, I don’t gag. It lasts for a few seconds, then goes away.

I can drink, eat, speak and breathe with no problem. For a time, it did affect my appetite, and I lost weight very rapidly due to not eating much. I suspect it might be stress or anxiety related since my symptoms seem to show up when my anxiety starts to act up. My other guess it can be related to heartburn. Symptoms show up also after really bad heartburn. Any ideas what it can be? Thank you.

Age: 33
Female
Medications: Not taking any medication
General Information: When these symptoms appear, sometimes I’ll feel either cold or hot flashes.