Difficulty Swallowing in Fairhope, AL
What Causes Difficulty Swallowing?
Several medical conditions can cause swallowing problems, including:
- Acid reflux
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Esophageal growths
- Esophageal cancer
- Head or neck injuries
- Surgery to your mouth or neck
- Dental issues or missing teeth
Signs and Symptoms of a Swallowing Disorder
A swallowing disorder, also known as dysphagia, can have accompanying signs and symptoms, including pain when swallowing, a sensation of a lump in your throat, coughing or clearing your throat during or after eating or drinking, or breathing difficulties after eating.
Diagnosing the Cause of Swallowing Difficulties
Your ENT specialist will record your signs and symptoms and may recommend laboratory testing to determine if an underlying medical condition contributes to swallowing difficulties. In addition, your ENT specialist may recommend diagnostic tests including:
- A barium x-ray, during which you drink a barium solution to coat your esophagus. This enables easier viewing of the esophagus on an x-ray.
- An endoscopy uses a thin, flexible tube known as an endoscope with a camera attached to one end. The endoscope is inserted into your mouth and guided down into your esophagus, stomach, and upper intestine. If any abnormal areas or growths are found, they can be removed and biopsied to determine if cancerous cells are present.
Treatment of a Swallowing Disorder
Treatment of swallowing difficulties or a swallowing disorder may include several options. Dietary modification is often an important part of swallowing disorder management. Your ENT specialist may also recommend the following:
- Medications to reduce stomach acid
- Medications to reduce esophageal spasm
- Surgical treatment, including stent placement to open a narrowed esophagus
