Swallowing Disorders Treatment Specialist Q&A

Swallowing abnormalities, or dysphagia, involve difficulty moving food or liquids from the mouth to the stomach. These issues can be caused by muscle weakness, nerve damage, or structural problems in the throat or esophagus. Early recognition and treatment are important to prevent serious health complications. Please seek medical attention if you begin to experience the following symptoms:

⦁ Difficulty swallowing or needing extra effort to move food or liquids down
⦁ Sensation of food stuck in the throat, chest, or behind the breastbone
⦁ Frequent coughing or choking while eating or drinking
⦁ Pain or discomfort during swallowing (odynophagia)
⦁ Gagging or throat clearing during or after meals
⦁ Liquid coming through the nose while swallowing (nasal regurgitation)
⦁ Avoiding certain foods due to fear of choking or discomfort
⦁ Unexplained weight loss, dehydration, or nutritional deficiencies
⦁ Repeated lung infections or pneumonia from food entering the airway
⦁ Prolonged eating or drinking time due to difficulty managing food safely

Difficulty swallowing, medically known as dysphagia, is a common symptom evaluated and treated at Digestive Disease Care. Our specialists understand that dysphagia can result from various conditions affecting the mouth, throat, or esophagus, impacting patients’ digestive health and overall well-being. Neurological disorders such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) can affect the coordination and strength of muscles used in swallowing.

Structural abnormalities of the digestive tract, such as esophageal strictures (narrowing), tumors or masses in the throat or esophagus, and diverticula (small pouches in the lining of the esophagus), are also common causes managed at our practice. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a digestive condition characterized by stomach acid refluxing into the esophagus, can lead to inflammation, irritation, and scarring, contributing significantly to swallowing difficulties. At Digestive Disease Care, we provide comprehensive evaluation and tailored treatment plans to effectively manage GERD-related dysphagia.

In addition, aging-related muscle weakness and reduced coordination in swallowing muscles can lead to dysphagia in older adults, a common concern addressed by our experienced providers. Conditions affecting muscle function, such as muscular dystrophy or myasthenia gravis, may further impair swallowing and require specialized digestive care.

Certain medications can cause swallowing difficulties due to side effects like dryness of the mouth or irritation of the esophageal lining, particularly if pills become temporarily lodged.

Persistent swallowing difficulties may indicate an underlying digestive or related medical condition. At Digestive Disease Care, our expert gastroenterologists and digestive health specialists offer thorough assessments, advanced diagnostic testing, and personalized treatment options designed to restore swallowing function and improve patients’ quality of life.

Swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) are diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical exams, and specialized tests. Key steps include:

⦁ Patient History: A detailed discussion of symptoms, duration, triggers, and severity.

⦁ Physical Examination: Assessment of the mouth, throat, and neck to check for abnormalities.

⦁ Barium Swallow Study: X-ray test using barium to visualize the swallowing process and detect blockages or dysfunctions.

⦁ FEES (Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing): A thin camera scope is inserted through the nose to view the throat structures during swallowing.

⦁ Esophageal Manometry: Measures muscle strength and coordination in the esophagus using a pressure-sensitive tube.

⦁ Advanced Imaging (CT/MRI): Used to identify structural or neurological causes when needed.

These tools help specialists pinpoint the cause and create an effective, personalized treatment plan.

Managing swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) involves a personalized, multidisciplinary approach. Key strategies include:

⦁ Comprehensive Evaluation: Identifying the root cause, such as GERD, neurological disorders, or esophageal abnormalities.

⦁ Dietary Modifications: Adjusting food textures (pureed, soft foods, thickened liquids) to make swallowing safer and easier.

⦁ Swallowing Techniques: Teaching posture and maneuvers like chin tuck or effortful swallow to reduce aspiration risk.

⦁ Swallow Therapy: Speech therapists provide exercises to strengthen swallowing muscles and improve coordination.

⦁ Medical Treatments: Medications to treat reflux or motility issues; procedures to widen strictures or correct structural problems.

⦁ Feeding Support: Feeding tubes may be used when oral intake isn’t safe or sufficient.

The goal is to improve safety, nutrition, and comfort while enhancing overall quality of life. For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Melville NY, New Hyde Park NY, Forest Hills NY, Jericho NY, Mineola NY, Lake Success NY, Babylon NY, East Setauket NY, Massapequa NY, Riverhead NY and BEYOND.