Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): Causes and Treatment
Swallowing is essential for proper nutrition, but when it becomes difficult—known as dysphagia—it may signal an underlying health issue. Occasional trouble swallowing can happen, but persistent symptoms should be evaluated by an ENT specialist.
How Swallowing Works
Swallowing involves several stages, from chewing food in the mouth to moving it through the throat and into the stomach. Problems can occur at any stage, leading to discomfort or the sensation that food is stuck.
Common Symptoms
Difficulty swallowing may include:
- Coughing or choking when eating or drinking
- Feeling like food is stuck in the throat
- Hoarseness or voice changes
- Drooling or difficulty managing saliva
- Unexplained weight loss or frequent throat clearing
Causes of Dysphagia
Dysphagia can result from a variety of conditions, including:
- Throat infections like tonsillitis
- Acid reflux (GERD)
- Muscle weakness related to aging
- Neurological conditions such as stroke or Parkinson’s disease
- Obstructions like food impaction or tumors
- Vocal cord or structural issues
Diagnosis and Treatment
An ENT specialist can diagnose swallowing disorders through a physical exam and specialized tests such as:
- FEES (Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing)
- Barium swallow studies
- Transnasal esophagoscopy (TNE)
Treatment depends on the cause and may include medications, dietary changes, or therapy with a speech-language pathologist to improve swallowing function.
ENT Care in Phoenix, Arizona
If you’re experiencing ongoing difficulty swallowing, Enticare ENT offers expert diagnosis and personalized care. Our ENT clinic is conveniently located in Phoenix, Arizona, providing advanced evaluation and treatment for swallowing disorders and related conditions.
Schedule an appointment today to protect your health and improve your quality of life.