Understanding Dysphagia
Welcome to our health education library. The information shared below is provided to you as an educational and informational source only and is not intended to replace a medical examination or consultation, or medical advice given to you by a physician or medical professional.
If you have a problem swallowing foods or liquids, you may have dysphagia. This condition has a number of causes. Your doctor can find out what is causing your problem and help relieve your symptoms.
Causes of Dysphagia
With dysphagia, foods or liquids do not easily pass down the esophagus. Often, dysphagia occurs if the esophagus walls thicken, causing a narrowing (stricture) of the passage. Dysphagia can be caused by any of the following:
A problem in the esophagus, such as an ulcer, a stricture, or cancer
Muscles in your mouth, throat, or esophagus that don't work right
A nerve or brain problem (such as a stroke) that leaves your mouth, tongue, or throat muscles weak or changes how your muscles coordinate
Common Symptoms
If you have dysphagia, you may:
Feel chest pressure or pain when you swallow
Choke or cough when swallowing
Vomit after eating or drinking
Aspirate (inhale into the lungs) foods or liquids when you swallow
Have fatigue and weight loss
Discover leading-edge gastroenterology care. Call Digestive Disease Consultants of Orange County at 949.612.9090 or simply use the Request an Appointment form.
