What could the causes of burning at the top back of my throat be? Could I be experiencing acid reflux during sleep without knowing it? Is it a symptom of throat cancer? It happens off and on for past six months. I can't pinpoint an activity or pattern of why it acts up when it does. It will last for about15 mins on average. The sensation has never lasted longer than 30 mins. I have recently gone from 118 lbs to 132 lbs since quitting smoking six months ago. I had first case of gastroietus or something like that about a week ago and some recent episodes of heartburn though just a few times and I had the burning sensation coming and going before the heartburn episodes recently which I'm attributing to increased weight and overeating on the holiday. The burning sensation is becoming a little more frequent like weekly this month rather than once a month. Any ideas? I suppose I should see a doctor but I don't want anything serious on my record until I can reach a year as a non-smoker and can get affordable life insurance. Thank you in advance for your response.