Swallowing Disorders

Finding Relief from Swallowing Disorders: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Struggling with swallowing difficulties? Wondering what causes swallowing disorders and how they’re treated? Learn about the symptoms, types, and treatments for swallowing disorders from the experts at Pinnacle ENT.

Swallowing is an essential daily activity that most of us do without much thought. However, when you begin to experience difficulty swallowing, it can become painful and alarming.

The complex process of swallowing involves nearly fifty pairs of muscles and nerves working together to move food and liquid from the mouth to the stomach. When this process goes wrong, it can significantly impact one’s quality of life.

How Do We Swallow?

Swallowing is a coordinated process that occurs in four distinct stages, each vital to ensuring that food and liquid are safely moved from your mouth to your stomach.

The Four Stages of Swallowing:

• Stage 1: Oral Preparation Stage
  • Food is chewed and mixed with saliva to prepare for swallowing.

• Stage 2: Oral Stage
  • The tongue pushes food or liquid to the back of the mouth.

• Stage 3: Pharyngeal Stage
  • Food or liquid passes through the pharynx (the back of the throat) into the esophagus.

• Stage 4: Esophageal Stage
  • Food or liquid passes through the esophagus and enters the stomach.

Disruptions at any stage can lead to the development of a swallowing disorder, which may require medical attention.

What Are the Symptoms of a Swallowing Disorder?

Swallowing disorders, also known as dysphagia, can have a variety of symptoms. These can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and may interfere with your ability to eat and drink.

Common Symptoms of Swallowing Disorders:

• Painful swallowing or an inability to swallow
• The sensation of food getting stuck in your throat or chest
• Gagging or choking when swallowing
• Regurgitation of food
• Heartburn
• Drooling

What are the Different Types of Swallowing Disorders?

Swallowing disorders typically fall into one of two categories:

Types of Swallowing Disorders:

• Dysphagia:
  • This is the sensation of food being regurgitated or difficulty coordinating the muscles involved in swallowing, leading to coughing or choking.
• Odynophagia:
  • This is characterized by pain in the chest or throat during swallowing.

Understanding the type of swallowing disorder you’re suffering from is key to crafting an effective treatment plan.

How Are Swallowing Disorders Diagnosed?

If you suspect you have a swallowing disorder, our ENTs are here to help. Diagnosing a swallowing disorder involves thoroughly evaluating your symptoms and a physical exam

Diagnostic Procedures May Include:

• Inspection of the Stomach and Esophagus
• Throat Muscle Strength Testing
• Acid Reflux Testing

Keeping a detailed log of your symptoms, including which foods trigger them, can help our team better diagnose the underlying cause of your dysphagia and get the most appropriate treatment to relieve your symptoms.

How Are Swallowing Disorders Treated?

Treating swallowing disorders depends greatly on the underlying cause and severity of the symptoms.

Common Treatment Options:

• Medications like antacids, muscle relaxants, or drugs designed to limit acid production may be suggested.

• Swallowing therapy is a popular treatment where patients are taught techniques for stimulating the muscles and nerves used for swallowing to improve their function.

• Dilation may also be used, which is a procedure that stretches the esophagus, making it easier to swallow.

In most severe cases, major modifications to diet and lifestyle may be necessary to manage your condition effectively.

Swallowing disorders can be painful and disruptive, but they don’t have to control your life. At Pinnacle ENT, we provide comprehensive care to help you manage and treat your swallowing disorder. If you’re experiencing symptoms of a swallowing disorder, contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards relief.