Trouble Swallowing in North Texas

Dysphagia, also known as difficulty swallowing, is the inability to swallow foods easily. When you have dysphagia, it can feel like you have to work extra hard to swallow, and it may even be painful. Persistent trouble swallowing normally indicates an underlying issue with the esophagus, mouth, or pharynx. Some causes of dysphagia include:

• Acid reflux and GERD
• Neck and throat masses
• Thyroid disease
• Neurological conditions (like stroke and ALS)

If you have been experiencing recurrent swallowing problems, please reach out to Cross Timbers ENT. Our specialists uncover the cause of dysphagia and provide treatment options for North Texas patients.

To diagnose dysphagia, your ENT professional will assess your symptoms and medical history, and an endoscope may be used to check your throat. Other diagnostic tests may include a barium swallow (esophagogram) test or fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES). From there, a personalized treatment plan will be created based on your diagnosis. If you have thyroid disease or a neck or throat mass, surgery may be needed. If the probable cause of dysphagia is acid reflux or GERD, we will start medications to reduce the reflux. For swallowing disorders linked to neurological conditions, you may need to work with a speech-language pathologist (SLP) and start swallowing therapy. Your therapist can teach you special exercises to help coordinate the muscles and stimulate the nerves involved with swallowing.

When should I seek medical help for dysphagia?

You should seek medical help for dysphagia if you experience persistent difficulty swallowing, choking or coughing during meals, unexplained weight loss, frequent heartburn, or a sensation of food being stuck in your throat or chest. If these symptoms occur regularly or worsen, they may indicate a serious underlying condition. Early evaluation can prevent complications such as malnutrition, dehydration, or aspiration (food or liquid entering the lungs).

Are there exercises that can help with dysphagia?

Yes, swallowing therapy, including specific exercises, can help strengthen the muscles involved in swallowing and improve coordination. Speech therapists often work with patients to develop customized exercise programs that address the underlying issues contributing to dysphagia. These exercises can be especially helpful for patients whose dysphagia is caused by neurological conditions or muscle weakness.

Can dysphagia cause complications if left untreated?

Yes, untreated dysphagia can lead to serious complications, such as malnutrition, dehydration, or aspiration pneumonia, which occurs when food or liquid enters the lungs. Dysphagia can also result in social and emotional challenges, as individuals may avoid eating in public or experience anxiety about meals. Early treatment is crucial to prevent these complications, and our team in Arlington, TX is dedicated to helping patients manage their symptoms effectively.

If you deal with persistent trouble swallowing that affects your daily life, it's probably time to visit a specialist. The experts at Cross Timbers ENT provide patients with relief for dysphagia through innovative techniques and treatments. We offer convenient appointment times at our offices in Arlington, Mansfield, and Midlothian, TX. Schedule your visit today.