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Swallowing
There are numerous types of swallowing disorders, causing a variety of symptoms. The following discomforts when swallowing could be indicative of a swallowing disorder and can be diagnosed & treated by one of our Westside Head & Neck Physicians:
- Food sticking in the throat
- Heartburn
- Choking on food
- Inability to swallow liquids
- Pain when swallowing
- Persistent cough or sore throat
- Hoarseness or a gurgly voice during or after eating
- A”lump in the throat” sensation
- Wheezing without a history of asthma or lung problems
Swallowing Problems Causes & Treatments
Swallowing problems may be temporary, or they may be an indication of a serious medical problem. There are many causes, including nerve and muscle problems, head and neck injuries and cancer. Or they may occur because of a stroke. Certain medications can also contribute to the disorder.
Diagnosis
Our physicians, who work closely with many of the top gastroenterologists (a physician who specializes in treating problems of the digestive system) in Los Angeles, can determine the location and the extent of the problem based on symptoms, a physical examination, diagnostic tests, and x-rays.
Tests may include:
- Video Laryngostroboscopy – A simple look at the lower throat with a non-painful endoscope. This requires no anesthesia and will usually be done at an initial ENT visit for swallowing problems. It is helpful to diagnose problems occurring in the first stages of swallowing, and it is also used to identify signs of gastroesophageal reflux harming the throat – a common cause of swallowing problems.
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A Barium Swallow StudyA motility study, which records movement and pressures of the esophagus
- X-rays of the neck, head or thyroid
- Twenty-four-hour pH test to determine the amount of acid reflux
- Endoscopy to view the inside of the esophagus
Treatment
Sometimes just learning different physical techniques is enough to improve swallowing ability. Other times, and depending on the precise ailment, medical intervention, and/or surgery may be needed.
There are various strategies that are used to offer patients a more comfortable eating and swallowing experience. It is important to note that a swallowing therapist can tailor strategies to specific situations.
Some medications can do the following:
- Reduce stomach acid
- Overcome spasms of the esophagus
- Help the swallowing nerves function better
Surgery:
Surgery also may be an option for people with swallowing disorders. Surgical treatments depend on the location of the swallowing disorder and may involve strengthening or loosening the upper or lower esophageal valves or removing obstructions or tumors from the esophagus.