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Kansas City's Premiere Digestive Health Specialists
Request An Appointment
816-836-2200
Kansas City's Premiere Digestive Health Specialists
Swallowing difficulties, also called dysphagia, are fairly common. Swallowing difficulties can begin anywhere from the mouth to the esophagus for any number of reasons.
Swallowing difficulty is a problem that makes swallowing foods and liquids very challenging. There is a rhythmic process that occurs when food is eaten. As food goes into the mouth it enters the first stage in the process, which is chewing the food into smaller pieces. Once the food is chewed the tongue pushes food back toward the esophagus to begin digestion. The esophagus then transports the food through muscle contractions to the stomach. Swallowing difficulty can happen at any stage in this process.
There are multiple reasons as to why swallowing difficulties can happen, but the best way to avoid most of them can be done through changing the way you eat your food. Taking smaller bites of food and chewing food for a longer period of time can help food move through to the esophagus. Avoiding talking while food is in your mouth and steering clear of foods that easily get stuck together help in reducing the risk of choking.
There are some swallowing difficulties that are caused by illness such as strep throat. Additionally, serious diseases like esophageal cancer can make swallowing very difficult.
If you are experiencing swallowing difficulty you will know right away. Because swallowing difficulty can effect the ability to breath it is important to consult a doctor if you are having ongoing problems with swallowing.
Swallowing difficulty symptoms include, but are not limited to:
Swallowing difficulty can occur by something simple like eating food too quickly or not fully chewing a piece of food, but it can also be cause for concern for a more serious illness. If symptoms of swallowing difficulties are repeatedly present, consulting a doctor is highly recommended.
At Midwest Gastroenterology we evaluate a patient's history and current symptoms to make a diagnoses and create a treatment plan. Upon evaluation a possible endoscopy may be done to determine if the swallowing difficulty is related to another disease or condition.
Swallowing difficulty is very treatable. If the difficulties are caused by infection, then antibiotics will be prescribed. Some swallowing difficulties are caused by weak esophageal muscles. In these cases therapy to strengthen the muscles in the throat and esophagus can be done.
Ongoing swallowing difficulty mainly impacts those who suffer from illnesses related to the throat and esophagus, but can impact anyone at anytime.
If you are suffering from an illness related to the throat or esophagus and are experiencing symptoms of swallowing difficulties you need to be screened for proper care and treatment.
