What are the most common causes of swallowing difficulties?
November 7, 2022 | 20,00 EUR | answered by David Rüppel
Dear Doctor specializing in Otorhinolaryngology,
My name is Louis Wittkopf and I am reaching out to you because I have been experiencing swallowing difficulties for some time now. These difficulties occur particularly when eating and drinking, and it feels like something is getting stuck in my throat. I also feel like I need to cough more frequently than usual to trigger the swallowing reflex.
I am concerned that these symptoms could indicate a serious illness. Therefore, I would like to know from you what the most common causes of swallowing difficulties are. Could it be inflammation of the esophagus, or are there other possible causes that I should consider?
I am also interested to know if there are treatment options available to alleviate my swallowing difficulties. Are there medications that could help, or are therapeutic measures such as swallowing exercises or dietary changes advisable?
Since I am currently feeling uncertain and would like clarity about my symptoms and possible solutions, I would greatly appreciate it if you could assist me.
Sincerely,
Louis Wittkopf
Dear Louis Wittkopf,
Thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise as an ear, nose, and throat specialist. I understand that swallowing difficulties can be very distressing and it is important to know the causes and treatment options. I would be happy to provide detailed answers to your questions.
Swallowing difficulties can have various causes, ranging from harmless to serious conditions. Common causes include inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis), narrowing of the esophagus (strictures), acid reflux disease, thyroid disorders, tumors in the neck or esophagus, neurological conditions, or muscle problems in the swallowing process.
In your case, if you feel like something is stuck in your throat and you often have to cough to trigger the swallowing reflex, this could indicate a disturbance in the swallowing mechanism. Inflammation of the esophagus is also a possible cause, especially if you also experience heartburn or acid reflux.
To determine the exact cause of your swallowing difficulties, a thorough examination is necessary. This may include a clinical examination, an endoscopy of the esophagus, a radiological examination, or esophageal manometry (pressure measurement).
The treatment of swallowing difficulties depends on the underlying cause. In the case of esophagitis, medications such as proton pump inhibitors or antacids can help alleviate symptoms. In cases of esophageal strictures, endoscopic or surgical measures may be necessary to facilitate passage.
Swallowing exercises, speech therapy, and a modified diet may also be part of the treatment, especially in cases of neurological disorders or muscle weakness in the swallowing process.
It is important that you take your symptoms seriously and seek medical attention promptly to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment. Please do not hesitate to schedule an appointment at my office so that we can find a solution for your swallowing difficulties together.
Best regards,
David Rüppel, Specialist in Ear, Nose, and Throat Medicine
