Dysphagia - Outpatient Rehab
Understanding Dysphagia
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) means it takes more time and effort to move food or liquid from your mouth to your stomach. Dysphagia may also be associated with pain. In some cases, swallowing may be impossible.
Occasional difficulty swallowing, which may occur when you eat too fast or don’t chew your food well enough, usually isn’t cause for concern. But persistent dysphagia may indicate a serious medical condition requiring treatment.
Dysphagia can occur at any age, but it’s more common in older adults. The causes of swallowing problems vary, and treatment depends on the cause.
Symptoms & Signs
Signs and symptoms associated with dysphagia may include:
- Pain while swallowing (odynophagia) - Discomfort or burning sensation during swallowing
- Inability to swallow - Feeling like food won’t go down or gets blocked
- Sensation of food getting stuck - In your throat, chest, or behind the breastbone (sternum)
- Drooling - Due to difficulty managing saliva
- Hoarseness - Changes in your voice caused by irritation or reflux
- Regurgitation of food - Bringing food back up shortly after eating
- Frequent heartburn - A burning sensation that may indicate acid reflux
- Backflow of food or stomach acid into the throat - May cause coughing or sore throat
- Unexpected weight loss - Often due to reduced intake or avoidance of meals
- Coughing or gagging when swallowing - Especially with liquids or certain textures
- Need to cut food into small pieces or avoid certain foods - A coping mechanism for swallowing difficulty
