Dysphagia (Difficulty Swallowing)
What is Dysphagia
Dysphagia is the medical term for difficulty swallowing, often causing pain, coughing, choking, or the sensation of food sticking in the throat or chest.
If left untreated, dysphagia can lead to severe issues, including pneumonia (due to food entering the lungs), malnutrition, and dehydration.
Common Causes
- GERD
- Esophageal narrowing.
- Esophageal Cancer.
- Esophageal Ulcer.
- Nerve/Muscle disorders.
- Stroke.
- Cerebral Palsy
- Head/Spinal injuries.
Symptoms
Pain while swallowing (odynophagia)
Food or liquid getting stuck in the throat or chest
Coughing, gagging, or choking while eating or drinking
Drooling or excessive saliva
Hoarseness or a “wet” sounding voice
Regurgitation or bringing food back up
Unexplained weight loss or malnutrition
Treatment Options
- Endoscopic intervention with possible dilation.
- POEM therapy/Botox therapy (motility disorders)
- Swallowing therapy with a speech-language pathologist
- Medications or surgery (in some cases)
- Diet modifications (soft foods, thickened liquids)