Difficulty in swallowing is frightening. But you're not alone. Dysphagia is a problem that many individuals in Houston, as well as the country, face. At GastroDoxs we have come to assist in making eating comfortable and safe (again)! This guide provides information on what is dysphagia, its etiology and what you can do about it. We also will tell you about treatments, taking long-term care and working towards a cure in case a cure is possible. Dr. Bharat Pothuri, our Houston-based board-certified gastroenterologist, offers his professional opinion in the course of the show.
Dysphagia is a condition that is characterized by difficulty in swallowing food or water. It may be as though food gets stuck at the throat or chest. You can also cough, choke or even experience burning of the meals. The process of swallowing is complicated. It entails nerves and muscles and your brain collaborating. When any component of the system is not functioning, it may be hard to swallow.
Dr. Pothuri says most of us do not even consider the way we swallow. However, meals are stressful when it is not functioning properly.
Trouble can be caused by many things and swallowing is one of them. There are short-term ones and long-lasting ones.
The first solution, says Dr. Pothuri, is finding the cause. Then we develop a care plan that will suit you.
See your doctor if you have:
Don't delay. The earlier we treat you, the better. Call a doctor if:
Your doctor may:
The plan of what to do to you depends on what causes your symptoms. GastroDoxs in Houston customizes each plan.
There are patients that require basic modifications. Some require more intricate treatment as discussed by Dr. Pothuri. We show every individual one step at the time.
Not all of them can be cured completely. Yet the vast majority of the patients become better. Key steps include:
Good management assists you to live good lives in the daily life. A strong plan includes:
| Option | What It Is | Pros | Cons |
| Swallowing Therapy | Exercises with SLP | Strengthens; is not invasive | Time and effort consuming |
| Diet Modifications | Food changes in texture | Easy to initiate; quite safe | Restrictive to food intake |
| Medications | Reflux or muscle control | Cause; easy to manipulate | Might produce side effects |
| Surgery/Endoscopy | Repair of problems | Quick in a couple cases | large operation requires healing |
At GastroDoxs, it is easy to get expert care:
According to Dr. Pothuri, swallowing problems involve the way one eats, talks and feels. Helping you can make your life better.
Always be on your guard, even where you are better:
Dysphagia may be stressful, but it does not have to experience it alone. Eating is back with the proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
The specialists of GastroDoxs in Houston will assist you whether you need dysphagia treatment, or long term symptom management. We should start that first step.
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 issues, acid reflux, muscle issues, or alterations to the throat or esophagus.
In some cases mild cases heal. However, the majority require therapy to be better.
No. It is mild and facilitated by a speech-language professional.
Some of them feel better after a couple of weeks. Others spend a few months under normal care.
Avoid dry, hard or sticky food such as crackers, nuts, or peanut butter.
Your SLP will guide you. There are those who just require thick drinks and there are those who do not.
Why only on the failure of less invasive treatments or when there is a structural issue.
Yes. Children who have some medical conditions might also experience difficulty in swallowing.
Select a gastroenterologist or SLP familiar with the treatment of swallowing problems as in the case of GastroDoxs.
Yes. Chronic acid reflux may destroy the esophagus and increase difficulty in swallowing.
