Having trouble swallowing can feel scary. But you’re not alone. Many people in Houston and across the country deal with dysphagia. At GastroDoxs, we’re here to help make eating safe and comfortable again. This guide explains what dysphagia is, what causes it, and what you can do. We’ll also share treatments, long-term care tips, and how to work toward a cure when possible. Dr. Bharat Pothuri, our board-certified gastroenterologist in Houston, shares his expert advice throughout.
Dysphagia means having trouble swallowing food or liquids. It might feel like food gets stuck in your throat or chest. You may also cough, choke, or feel burning after meals. Swallowing is a complex process. It involves nerves, muscles, and your brain working together. If one part of the system isn’t working, swallowing can become difficult.
“Most of us don’t think about how we swallow,” says Dr. Pothuri. “But when it stops working right, meals become stressful.”
Many things can lead to trouble swallowing. Some are short-term; others are long-lasting.
“Finding the cause is the first step,” says Dr. Pothuri. “Then we create a care plan that fits your needs.”
See your doctor if you have:
Don’t delay. The sooner we start treatment, the better your results. Call a doctor if:
Your doctor may:
Your care plan depends on what’s causing your symptoms. At GastroDoxs in Houston, we personalize every plan.
“Some patients need simple changes. Others need more complex care,” explains Dr. Pothuri. “We guide each person step by step.”
Not every case is fully curable. But most patients improve a lot. Key steps include:
Good management helps you live well every day. A strong plan includes:
| Option | What It Is | Pros | Cons |
| Swallowing Therapy | Exercises with an SLP | Builds strength; non-invasive | Takes time and effort |
| Diet Changes | Texture modifications | Easy to start; very safe | Can limit food choices |
| Medications | For reflux or muscle control | Treats cause; easy to adjust | May cause side effects |
| Surgery/Endoscopy | Procedures to fix issues | Fast results in some cases | More invasive; needs recovery |
At GastroDoxs, we make expert care easy to access:
“Swallowing problems affect how you eat, talk, and feel,” says Dr. Pothuri. “Getting help can improve your life.”
Even when you feel better, stay careful:
Dysphagia can be stressful, but you don’t have to go through it alone. With the right diagnosis and treatment plan, you can enjoy eating again.
Whether you're looking to cure dysphagia or manage symptoms long-term, the experts at GastroDoxs in Houston are here to help. Let’s take that first step—together.
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.
Neurological problems, acid reflux, muscle disorders, or changes in the throat or esophagus.
Sometimes mild cases get better. But most need treatment to improve.
No. It’s gentle and guided by a speech-language expert.
Many feel better in a few weeks. Some take a few months with regular care.
Stay away from dry, hard, or sticky foods like crackers, nuts, or peanut butter.
Your SLP will guide you. Some people need thick drinks, others don’t.
Only if less invasive treatments don’t work or if you have a structural problem.
Yes. Kids with certain health conditions may also have trouble swallowing.
Choose a gastroenterologist or SLP who knows how to treat swallowing problems—like the team at GastroDoxs.
Yes. Long-term acid reflux can damage the esophagus and make swallowing harder.
