Dysphagia Disorder: Difficulty Swallowing

Dysphagia is a medical condition in which an individual experiences difficulty swallowing. It can occur at any age, but it is more common in older adults. Dysphagia can cause a variety of symptoms, including coughing or choking while eating or drinking, feeling like food is getting stuck in the throat, regurgitation of food, and chest pain.

There are two types of dysphagia: oropharyngeal and esophageal. Oropharyngeal dysphagia occurs when there is a problem with the muscles and nerves in the mouth and throat that are involved in swallowing. Esophageal dysphagia, on the other hand, occurs when there is a problem with the muscles and nerves in the esophagus, which is the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach.

There are several causes of dysphagia, including neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, stroke, or dementia, as well as structural abnormalities in the digestive tract, such as tumors or strictures. Other risk factors for dysphagia include aging, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and certain medications.

If you are experiencing difficulty swallowing, it is important to see a healthcare provider for evaluation and diagnosis. Treatment for dysphagia will depend on the underlying cause, but may include exercises to improve swallowing function, medication to reduce acid reflux, or surgery to repair structural abnormalities in the digestive tract.