Do you often feel like food gets stuck in your throat after meals? You’re not alone. Many people in Houston ask, “Why does food get stuck in my throat?” This uncomfortable feeling is called dysphagia. At GastroDoxs.com, we’re here to help you understand what it is, why it happens, and how to treat it.
Dysphagia means having trouble swallowing. It can happen at any age but is more common in older adults. You might notice:
“Dysphagia affects nearly 15% of adults over 50,” says Dr. Bharat Pothuri, a gastroenterologist in Houston. “But many people find relief through diet changes or simple exercises.”
Here are some common reasons people have trouble swallowing:
“In Houston, allergies and pollution also play a role,” says Dr. Pothuri. “Chronic throat irritation from your environment may worsen symptoms.”
Even if you don’t know the term “dysphagia,” you probably know the feeling. Symptoms may include:
According to the Mayo Clinic, this feeling is often harmless but should be checked if it persists.
Here are a few common reasons:
If it happens often, keep a food diary. Note what you ate, how it felt, and any symptoms like coughing or acid reflux.
You can try these easy tricks to feel better:
“Small changes in how and what you eat can make a big difference,” says Dr. Pothuri.
A specialist will first ask about your symptoms and may run tests like:
These tests help your doctor understand the cause and recommend the right treatment.
Treatment depends on what’s causing your symptoms:
“Houston has excellent clinics for swallowing therapy,” says Dr. Pothuri. “Specialists work with you to ease that stuck feeling and make meals enjoyable again.”
If you’re in the Houston area, check out these resources:
Search "dysphagia doctor near me" and add “Houston” to find help nearby.
Type | Where It Happens | Symptoms | Common Treatments |
Oropharyngeal | Throat area (pharynx) | Coughing, choking, nasal regurgitation | Swallowing therapy, soft diet |
Esophageal | In the esophagus | Food sticking, heartburn | Medications, dilation, surgery |
Stay ahead of symptoms with these daily habits:
Don’t wait if you have any of these signs:
Early treatment can prevent bigger problems later.
Feeling like food is stuck in your throat can be scary—but you’re not alone. With the right care and guidance, you can enjoy meals again. At GastroDoxs.com, we’re here to help you feel better and eat with comfort.
For more details, visit the NIH swallowing disorder page or the CDC’s digestive health info.
Still concerned? Call GastroDoxs.com to book a consultation today.
It’s the medical term for trouble swallowing.
It could be reflux, muscle weakness, a blockage, or nerve issues.
Drink water between bites, chew well, and eat soft foods.
If you have weight loss, chest pain, or trouble breathing while eating.
Yes, speech therapists can teach you exercises to improve swallowing.
Yes. It’s more common in older adults, but anyone can have it.
Yes. It can damage the esophagus and cause strictures.
It depends. Some improve in weeks; others need ongoing care.
Avoid dry, spicy, and acidic foods. Stick with soft, moist options.
Look for dysphagia clinics at Houston Methodist, Memorial Hermann, or UTHealth.