Swallowing disorders
In our practice, which specializes in gastrointestinal diseases, we often encounter patients who have difficulty swallowing. Swallowing disorders, also known medically as dysphagia, refer to problems with the transportation of liquids or food from the mouth to the stomach. This can cause discomfort and impair food intake. Our aim is to give you an overview of the causes, symptoms and treatment options for swallowing disorders.
What are swallowing disorders?
Swallowing disorders can manifest themselves in different ways. Some people have the feeling that food or drink gets «stuck in their throat», others experience coughing or choking when eating, which can lead to discomfort and sometimes even fear of eating. Dysphagia can be temporary or permanent and can range from mild to severe.
Causes of swallowing disorders
The causes of dysphagia are varied and can include both physical and neurological conditions. Common causes include:
- Inflammation or infection of the throat or esophagus
- Structural changes in the esophagus, such as narrowing (strictures) or muscle disorders
- Neurological diseases that affect the muscles or nerves that are necessary for the swallowing process, such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis
- Reflux disease, in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus and can lead to inflammation
Symptoms of swallowing disorders
Symptoms can vary depending on the cause and severity of the dysphagia; typical signs include
- Difficulty swallowing solid food, liquids or both
- Pain when swallowing
- The feeling of food getting stuck in your throat
- Frequent coughing or gagging during or after eating
- Unintentional weight loss or dehydration
Treatment options
The treatment of dysphagia depends on the underlying cause. Some approaches include:
- Dietary adaptations, such as changing the consistency of food to make it easier to swallow
- Swallowing training with a speech therapist to strengthen the muscles and learn effective swallowing techniques
- Drug treatment to treat any inflammation or reflux
- In certain cases, surgical interventions to correct structural problems in the esophagus
If you have difficulty swallowing or notice other related symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice. Early diagnosis and treatment can not only improve your quality of life, but also prevent serious complications.
Our team is here to support you and find the best possible treatment based on your individual needs. Don’t hesitate to contact us to find out more or to make an appointment. We are here to help you eat and drink with confidence again.