Dysphasia or difficulty swallowing is a condition that makes it more difficult or impossible to move food or liquid from your mouth to your stomach. While difficulty swallowing can result when you eat too fast or don’t chew your food sufficiently, it may be the sign of a serious medical condition.
The condition is more common in older adults.
SYMPTOMS OF DYSPHAGIA
Dysphasia may occur as a result of malfunctions in your esophagus or your throat muscles. Symptoms f dysplasia include:
- Pain while swallowing (odynophagia)
- Inability to swallow
- Sensation of food getting stuck in your throat or chest or behind your breastbone (sternum)
- Drooling
- Hoarseness
- Bringing food back up (regurgitation)
- Frequent heartburn
- Having food or stomach acid back up into your throat
- Unexpectedly losing weight
- Coughing or gagging when swallowing
- Need to cut food into smaller pieces or avoiding certain foods because of trouble swallowing
If you are having difficulty swallowing or are experiencing weight loss, vomiting, or inability to swallow, you should see your doctor. If you feel that food is stuck in your throat or chest, go to emergency immediately.
TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR SWALLOWING
To determine the cause of your swallowing problem, Dr, Asgeri at Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology may order an X-ray with contrast {barium enema}, a dynamic swallowing study, a visual exam of your esophagus an endoscope, a fiber optic endoscopic swallowing evaluation, an esophageal muscle test, or Imaging scans.
After determining the likely cause of your problem, Dr. Asgeri may refer you to a speech or swallowing therapist if your problem is with your throat muscles. If your problem is esophageal dysphasia, he may prescribe medications, esophageal dilation, or surgery to expand the esophagus. Advanced swallowing disorders may require a liquid diet or a feeding tube.
SCHEDULE TESTING FOR SWALLOWING PROBLEMS AT OASIS ADVANCED GASTROENTEROLOGY
Testing for the source of swallowing problem is necessary to determine the cause. Contact Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology in Palm Springs to schedule an Endoscopy with Dr. Asgeri.
Request an appointment online or call 760-699-7607.