Difficulty Swallowing

Difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia, occurs when it takes additional effort to move liquids and foods from your mouth to your stomach—an act that most of us tend to take for granted—or are experiencing pain when swallowing. In the most extreme of cases, you may not be able to swallow at all.

Causes of Swallowing Difficulties

There are many possible causes for a person to suffer difficulty or pain when swallowing food or liquid. The most common causes include: 



  • Conditions that narrow the esophagus – sore, swollen, or infected throat; esophageal strictures caused by lodged pills or other objects; gastroesophageal reflux disease (heartburn); tumors or cancers. 
  • Conditions that compress the esophagus from the outside – goiter (enlarged thyroid gland); tumors, cancers, or other abnormalities of the throat, larynx, spine, and neck. 
  • Dry mouth – Sjogren syndrome, nerve or brain damage, medication side effects. 
  • Muscle weakness – autoimmune or nerve disorders, nerve or brain damage such as ALS or stroke. 

 Patients with dysphagia will be asked about the exact sensations they feel when swallowing, how quickly the problem appeared and how long it has been occurring, whether they are taking any medications that could cause these side-effects, what other symptoms they are experiencing (if any), and whether there is a family history of such problems. If a physical exam is not enough to make a diagnosis, other tests may be ordered, such as x-rays of the upper GI tract or brain, endoscopy of the esophagus and stomach, or blood sampling. Treatment and recovery depend on the underlying condition.

Symptoms of Swallowing Difficulties 

  • Inability to swallow 
  • Pain while swallowing 
  • Excessive clearing of the throat 
  • The feeling of food getting stuck in your throat or chest 
  • Hoarseness 
  • Chronic heartburn 
  • Reflux 

Treatment of Swallowing Difficulties

Treatment of swallowing difficulties will vary depending on the type and cause of your condition. Though dysphagia often temporary, there are a series of tests and better swallowing techniques that can be employed to help you lead a more normal and comfortable way of life.

Simple Tips to Reduce Swallowing Difficulties 

  • Drink plenty of fluids 
  • Take smaller bites of food while eating 
  • Chew slowly and carefully 


The first and best step in reducing your swallowing difficulties is to seek professional help. 


For over 25 years, we’ve helped the members of our community lead a better way of life by giving them the education, service, and treatment they deserve. If you have swallowing concerns for yourself or a loved one, please call our practice today. We’d love to help you. 

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