Dysphagia
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
AMBULATORY CARE:
Dysphagia
is trouble swallowing. You may have trouble moving food or liquid from your mouth to your esophagus or down to your stomach. You may have the problem when you eat, drink, or any time you try to swallow. Dysphagia can last a short time, or it can be a permanent problem.
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Other signs and symptoms you may have:
- Drooling, coughing after swallowing, or spitting up food
- Hoarse or wet-sounding voice while you eat or drink
- Feeling like food is stuck in your throat or pressure in your chest after you eat
- Lung infections that happen often
- Weight loss without trying
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:
- You have chest pain.
- You have shortness of breath.
Seek care immediately if:
- You choke on your saliva.
- You cannot eat or drink liquids at all.
Call your doctor or therapist if:
- You lose weight without trying.
- Your signs and symptoms get worse, or you have new signs or symptoms.
- You have signs or symptoms of dehydration, such as increased thirst, dark yellow urine, or little or no urine.
- You get colds often.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Treatment
depends on the cause of your dysphagia. You may need medicine to reduce acid reflux or muscle spasms in your throat. You may also need any of the following:
- Nutrition changes may reduce choking problems. Your healthcare provider may show you how to thicken liquids or soften foods to make them easier to swallow.
- A therapist can teach you different ways of swallowing by changing your head and body positions. You may be taught exercises to strengthen the muscles that help you swallow.
- Surgery may be needed to widen your esophagus or treat other medical conditions that cause dysphagia. Surgery may also be used to place a feeding tube. Liquid nutrition and medicines can be put through the tube so you do not have to swallow them.
Follow up with your doctor or therapist as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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