Something at the base of my neck in my throat! Help!?

I'm in pain. Actually it doesn't hurt...but in mental pain.I'm in fear that that thing-don't know what-feels like some clump at that little base of your neck that is indented a bit, but on the inside, maybe in my windpipe maybe in the food pipe. I can always feel it and have had it for a few days. I fear that it'll block my breathing while I sleep or awake!! Swallowing or drinking water doesn't get rid of it, and I find myself holding my neck forward to reduce the feeling. At the best it's just annoying...but often I start getting paranoid. How do I get rid of it! I don't want to die!