Difficulty swallowing — the sensation of food or liquid sticking in the throat or chest, or a feeling that it won't go down normally — is called dysphagia. It is never a normal symptom and should always be evaluated by a physician. Dysphagia has a wide range of causes, some of which are serious and require prompt attention.
Causes of Dysphagia
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Esophageal strictures — narrowing of the esophagus from chronic acid damage (GERD)
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Barrett's esophagus — precancerous esophageal lining change
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Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) — immune-mediated esophageal inflammation, common in younger patients
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Esophageal cancer — difficulty swallowing is an alarm symptom
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Esophageal motility disorders — achalasia, diffuse esophageal spasm
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Pharyngeal/neurological causes — stroke, Parkinson's disease, myasthenia gravis
Alarm Features - Seek Care Immediately
Difficulty swallowing is always worth evaluating, but especially urgent when: you are losing weight, food is completely sticking, you are over 50, symptoms have been worsening, or you have had longstanding GERD.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Upper endoscopy (EGD) is the primary diagnostic tool for dysphagia, allowing direct visualization of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Esophageal manometry and barium swallow studies may also be used. Treatment depends on the cause — dilation for strictures, proton pump inhibitors and dietary modification for EoE, and surgical or endoscopic intervention for achalasia.
Book a Dysphagia Evaluation in NJ — Call (908) 851-2770 or Schedule Online