The last 24 hours ive had throat tightness. it started at school. if you take your middle finger and thumb and go down from the top of your neck is where i feel it. when i lay down it feels like im going to choke. what could this be?

This sounds like it could be swelling in the area from an infection, from a virus or strep. It also could be from mucous dripping from a cold or allergy. Best to have it looked at to properly diagnose and treat if necessary. Meanwhile sit up or have your head elevated while laying down for the discomfort, drink plenty of fluids, and watch for fever or other symptoms.