Written by Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG

Feel Like You Always Have Food Stuck in Your Throat? You May Have Dysphagia

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.

In this article, we’ll explain:

• What dysphagia means
• Common causes
• What that “stuck” feeling really is
• Tips to relieve it
• When to see a doctor
• Local resources in Houston
• A quick comparison chart

1. What Is Dysphagia?

Dysphagia means having trouble swallowing. It can happen at any age but is more common in older adults. You might notice:

• Food or pills feel stuck in your throat
• Liquids make you cough or choke
• You clear your throat often when eating

“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.”

2. Common Causes of Dysphagia

Here are some common reasons people have trouble swallowing:

• Esophageal Strictures – A narrowing in the esophagus due to scarring or reflux
• GERD (Acid Reflux) – Stomach acid can damage your throat lining
• Muscle Problems – Some conditions weaken the throat or esophageal muscles
• Nerve Disorders – Stroke or Parkinson’s can affect swallowing control
• Tumors – Growths in the throat or esophagus can block food

“In Houston, allergies and pollution also play a role,” says Dr. Pothuri. “Chronic throat irritation from your environment may worsen symptoms.”

3. What Does It Feel Like When Food Gets Stuck?

Even if you don’t know the term “dysphagia,” you probably know the feeling. Symptoms may include:

• A lump in your throat (globus sensation)
• Pain when swallowing
• Regurgitating food
• Swallowing again and again to clear your throat

According to the Mayo Clinic, this feeling is often harmless but should be checked if it persists.

4. Why Does Food Get Stuck in My Throat?

Here are a few common reasons:

• Blockages – Narrowing or growths inside the throat
• Weak Muscles – The esophagus isn’t pushing food down properly
• Coordination Issues – Muscles aren’t working together
• Dry Mouth – Without saliva, food sticks more easily

If it happens often, keep a food diary. Note what you ate, how it felt, and any symptoms like coughing or acid reflux.

5. Simple Tips to Relieve the Stuck Feeling

You can try these easy tricks to feel better:

• Sip Water While Eating – Helps wash down food
• Chew More – Turn food into mush before swallowing
• Sit Upright – 90-degree angle, chin slightly forward
• Try Soda Water – Small sips may help move stuck food
• Relax Your Neck and Throat – Deep breathing and light stretches can help
• Eat Soft Foods – Stick to mashed or moist meals until you see a doctor

“Small changes in how and what you eat can make a big difference,” says Dr. Pothuri.

6. How Doctors Diagnose Dysphagia

A specialist will first ask about your symptoms and may run tests like:

• Barium Swallow Test – Tracks how food moves through your throat
• Endoscopy – Looks inside your esophagus
• Manometry – Measures the pressure and motion in your esophagus

These tests help your doctor understand the cause and recommend the right treatment.

7. Treatment Options

Treatment depends on what’s causing your symptoms:

• Medication – Such as PPIs for acid reflux
• Swallowing Therapy – Exercises with a speech therapist
• Esophageal Dilation – Stretching tight areas in the throat
• Surgery – For growths or major blockages

“Houston has excellent clinics for swallowing therapy,” says Dr. Pothuri. “Specialists work with you to ease that stuck feeling and make meals enjoyable again.”

8. Local Houston Clinics for Help

If you’re in the Houston area, check out these resources:

• Houston Methodist Dysphagia Clinic
• Memorial Hermann Digestive Health Center
• UTHealth Houston GI Division

Search "dysphagia doctor near me" and add “Houston” to find help nearby.

9. Quick Comparison Table

10. Prevention Tips

Stay ahead of symptoms with these daily habits:

• Drink 6–8 glasses of water daily
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals
• Avoid dry, spicy, or acidic foods
• Chew slowly and take breaks while eating
• Sleep with your head slightly raised

11. When to Call Your Doctor

Don’t wait if you have any of these signs:

• Losing weight without trying
• Chest pain
• Trouble breathing during meals
• Food feels completely stuck
• Blood in your spit or vomit

Early treatment can prevent bigger problems later.

Conclusion

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.

About the Author

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.