Dysphagia

What is Dysphagia?

Dysphagia occurs when it's hard to swallow. It can affect the throat (oropharyngeal dysphagia) or the esophagus (esophageal dysphagia), causing discomfort, pain, or a feeling that food is stuck as you eat or drink.

Common Symptoms

You may notice:

• Food sticking in your throat or chest
• Coughing or choking during meals
• Excessive drooling or saliva
• Unintended weight loss
• Heartburn or regurgitation of food

Causes

Dysphagia can be triggered by a variety of factors:

• Neurological events such as stroke or nerve disorders
• Muscle conditions like achalasia or esophageal spasms
• Tumors, strictures, or narrowing of the throat or esophagus
• Infections, inflammation, or swelling in the swallowing passages
• Side effects of certain medications that affect muscle control

Treatment Options for Dysphagia in Houston

Treatment includes personalized therapies and medical procedures:

• Swallowing therapy: Guided exercises with a speech-language pathologist to strengthen throat muscles and improve coordination.
• Diet modifications: Soft, pureed foods and thickened liquids tailored to your swallowing ability and nutritional needs.
• Medications: Acid reducers, muscle relaxants or prokinetics to treat reflux, relax esophageal muscles, and reduce spasms.
• Endoscopic procedures: Balloon dilation or stent placement to widen strictures and allow food to pass more easily.
• Surgical interventions: Heller myotomy for achalasia or fundoplication for severe reflux when less invasive treatments aren't effective.
• Positioning strategies: Techniques such as chin-tuck, head turn or upright seating during meals to minimize the risk of aspiration.