Swallowing should be easy. But with dysphagia, even simple meals can feel stressful. It affects 1 in 25 adults over 50 in the U.S. If left untreated, it can lead to weight loss, dehydration, or even pneumonia. The good news? Help is available.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top treatments for dysphagia in adults, share helpful diet tips, and show you where to get expert care in Houston.
“Early diagnosis and custom care can change lives,” says Dr. Bharat Pothuri, a gastroenterologist at Gastrodoxs.com. “Our team includes speech therapists, dietitians, and surgeons working together to help every patient.”
What Is Dysphagia?
Dysphagia means it’s hard to swallow. You may feel like food is stuck in your throat or chest. You might cough, gag, or avoid eating with others.
Why It Happens
Swallowing involves many muscles and nerves. Dysphagia can happen due to:
Without care, it can lead to poor nutrition or lung infections. That’s why early help is important. Read more from the NIH.
“If swallowing becomes hard, don’t delay care,” says Dr. Pothuri. “A custom plan can protect your health and quality of life.”
Risks of ignoring dysphagia:
Houston has top providers who can help early—before serious problems begin.
Let’s explore four effective ways to treat dysphagia. Your doctor may suggest one or a mix of these options.
Changing how and what you eat can ease symptoms fast.
Tips that help:
A speech therapist can test your swallowing and suggest the right food and drink textures. See this Mayo Clinic guide.
“Diet changes can be simple but powerful,” says Dr. Pothuri. “Even switching to pureed soup can make a big difference.”
A speech-language pathologist (SLP) can guide you through exercises to help muscles work better.
Common exercises include:
Therapy sessions usually last 30–60 minutes. Most patients attend 6–12 sessions. Daily practice at home is key.
“It’s like physical therapy for your throat,” Dr. Pothuri explains.
If your esophagus is too narrow, dilation may help.
How it works:
This is often the best option for people with narrowed passages from scarring or rings.
When reflux or spasms cause dysphagia, medications can help.
Treatment options:
Talk to your doctor about the risks, benefits, and next steps.
| Treatment | Description | Pros | Cons |
| Diet Modifications | Soft foods and thick liquids | Easy, low-cost, no surgery | Some may feel restricted |
| Swallowing Therapy | Muscle exercises with an SLP | Improves function over time | Takes effort and time |
| Endoscopic Dilation | Stretches narrowed esophagus | Fast relief, outpatient procedure | Minor risks (bleeding, tear) |
| Medications & Other Care | Treat reflux or spasms | Targets root cause | Side effects, ongoing cost |
If you’re looking for care, Houston has many top clinics for swallowing disorders.
Top dysphagia treatment centers:
“We work with dietitians and SLPs right in our clinic,” says Dr. Pothuri.
Need care? Here's how to start:
Even small changes can help you stay safe during meals:
Dysphagia doesn’t have to take over your life. With treatments like food changes, therapy, and dilation, you can eat with more confidence. Work with a Houston specialist to build a plan that fits you.
“Great results come from teamwork,” says Dr. Pothuri. “We help patients and families feel stronger together.”
Ready for help? Visit Gastrodoxs.com or call our Houston office today.
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Stroke, GERD, esophageal narrowing, or brain conditions are the most common causes.
A speech therapist will test your swallowing and recommend the safest liquid.
For mild cases, yes. But others may need therapy or medical treatment.
Most patients feel little to no pain thanks to light sedation.
Some see results in a few weeks. Full improvement often takes 3–4 months of practice.
They treat the cause but are often used with therapy or diet changes.
Visit Gastrodoxs.com or ask your doctor for a local referral.
Many patients return to normal diets over time with the right support.
Yes, but pediatric care is tailored for kids. A pediatric GI or SLP can help.
Check out resources from NIH, Mayo Clinic, or talk to your care team.
