Dysphagia IN NORTHWEST FLORIDA

There are two main types of dysphagia.  Oropharyngeal dysphagia is the weakening of the muscles in the throat that are needed to move food and liquid from the mouth through the esophagus to the stomach.  Esophageal dysphagia creates the sensation of food being stuck in your throat after you swallow.

There are many signs and symptoms that can lead to a dysphagia diagnosis.  These symptoms include:

• The sensation of food stuck in the throat or behind the sternum
• The inability to swallow
• Regurgitation
• Painful swallowing
• Stomach acid back up into the throat
• Gagging (when eating)
• Coughing (when eating)
• Persistent heartburn
• Hoarse voice
• Excessive drooling

There are many different causes of dysphagia.  For esophageal dysphagia, GERD, tumors, scleroderma (the development of scar-like tissue), and foreign bodies can all contribute to this condition.  Other causes include achalasia, which is when the lower esophageal muscle doesn’t properly relax.  A diffuse spasm can cause poorly coordinated contractions in the esophagus after swallowing.  An esophageal ring is a thin area of narrowing in the lower esophagus can making swallowing difficult.  A stricture, or narrowed esophagus, can make it easier for pieces of food to become trapped.  

For oropharyngeal dysphagia, certain neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and muscular dystrophy can weaken throat muscles.  Zenker’s diverticulum, which is a small pouch that collects food particles in the throat above the esophagus can also make swallowing difficult.  

When it becomes difficult to swallow, it can create other health issues.  Choking is a key concern if food becomes stuck in your throat.  Aspiration pneumonia is another concern the occurs when food or liquid introduces bacteria to the lungs while attempting to swallow.  Due to the inability to comfortably swallow, it can be difficult to receive proper nutrition.  This can result in dehydration, malnutrition, and potential weight loss.

There are a few risk factors and lifestyle conditions that can lead to the development of dysphagia. As with most health conditions, aging plays a significant role.  For the development of dysphagia, aging pertains to the wear and tear of the use of the esophagus.  Also, as stated above, certain neurological or nervous system disorders can lead to swallowing problems.

Depending on the type of dysphagia that you are diagnosed with, the treatment plan will vary.  A swallowing, or even speech therapist can be involved to treat oropharyngeal dysphagia to teach certain exercises that can strengthen the muscles in the throat.  New swallowing techniques can also be developed and practiced.  

For esophageal dysphagia, the esophagus can be dilated with balloon.  This procedure expands and stretches the esophagus.  If a tumor, pharyngoesophageal diverticulum, or achalasia, surgery may be necessary to clear the esophagus.  If your dysphagia is caused by GERD, medication can be prescribed to reduce stomach acid and its consequential reflux.