Trouble swallowing

Trouble swallowing, also known as dysphagia, is a medical condition characterized by difficulty or discomfort in swallowing. It is a symptom rather than a disease in itself and can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions.

Causes

Dysphagia can be caused by a number of conditions, including neurological disorders, muscular disorders, and gastrointestinal disorders. Some common causes include:

• Stroke
• Parkinson's disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
• Esophageal stricture
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Esophageal cancer

Symptoms

Symptoms of trouble swallowing can vary depending on the underlying cause. They may include:

• Pain while swallowing
• Inability to swallow
• Sensation of food getting stuck in the throat or chest
• Drooling
• Hoarseness
• Regurgitation
• Frequent heartburn
• Unexpected weight loss
• Coughing or gagging when swallowing

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of dysphagia typically involves a thorough medical history and physical examination. Additional tests may include:

• Barium swallow
• Endoscopy
• Manometry
• pH monitoring

Treatment

Treatment for trouble swallowing depends on the underlying cause. It may include:

• Medications
• Swallowing therapy
• Dietary changes
• Surgery

See also

• Oropharyngeal dysphagia
• Esophageal dysphagia
• Globus sensation