Dysphagia Treatment

Understanding Dysphagia

Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is a condition that can significantly impact daily life. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including neurological disorders, physical obstructions, or other medical conditions. At ENT Care, our experienced ENT specialists provide comprehensive care for dysphagia patients.

Symptoms of Dysphagia

Dysphagia can cause a range of symptoms, including:

  • Difficulty swallowing food or liquids: Trouble swallowing solid foods, liquids, or both.

  • Coughing or choking: Coughing or choking during meals.

  • Food getting stuck: Food feeling like it’s getting stuck in the throat.

  • Regurgitation: Food or liquids coming back up into the mouth or throat.

  • Weight loss: Unintentional weight loss due to difficulty eating.

Causes of Dysphagia

Dysphagia can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Neurological disorders: Conditions such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or multiple sclerosis.

  • Physical obstructions: Narrowing or blockages in the esophagus or throat.

  • Other medical conditions: Conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or thyroid disorders.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

If dysphagia is suspected, our ENT specialists will perform a thorough evaluation, including:

  • Physical examination: A thorough examination of the throat and neck.

  • Swallowing study: A videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) or fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) to assess swallowing function.

  • Imaging tests: CT or MRI scans to evaluate the esophagus and surrounding structures.

Treatment Options

Treatment for dysphagia depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Options may include:

  • Swallowing therapy: Exercises and techniques to improve swallowing function.

  • Dietary modifications: Changes to the diet to make eating and swallowing easier.

  • Medications: Medications to manage underlying conditions or symptoms.

  • Surgery: Surgical procedures to remove obstructions or repair structural issues.

Benefits of Treatment

Treating dysphagia can offer numerous benefits, including:

  • Improved swallowing function: Treatment can help improve the ability to swallow safely and efficiently.

  • Reduced risk of complications: Treatment can help reduce the risk of complications such as aspiration pneumonia.

  • Improved quality of life: Treatment can help improve overall quality of life by addressing dysphagia-related issues.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re experiencing difficulty swallowing or other symptoms of dysphagia, schedule a consultation with our experienced ENT specialists at ENT Care. We’ll work with you to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs.