Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): Causes You Should Not Ignore
Difficulty swallowing, medically known as dysphagia, refers to trouble moving food or liquid from the mouth to the stomach. It may feel like food is stuck in the throat or chest, or swallowing may be painful or slow.
Occasional swallowing difficulty can occur with flu, but persistent dysphagia is not normal and must be evaluated. As an ENT specialist, I often see patients who delay seeking help, not realising this symptom may indicate serious throat or oesophageal conditions.
What Does Difficulty Swallowing Feel Like?
Common Causes of Dysphagia
1. Throat Inflammation
Tonsillitis, pharyngitis, or ulcers.
2. Acid Reflux
Chronic acid exposure causes throat narrowing.
3. Structural Narrowing
- Oesophageal stricture
- Webs or rings
4. Neurological Conditions
Stroke, Parkinson’s disease.
5. Muscle Disorders
Weak throat muscles affecting swallow.
6. Throat or Oesophageal Cancer (Rare but Serious)
Red flags:
- Progressive worsening
- Weight loss
- Blood
- Neck lump
🚨 When Should You Worry?
Early diagnosis saves lives.
How an ENT Specialist Evaluates Dysphagia
Assessment includes:
- Detailed history
- Mouth & neck examination
- Flexible nasoendoscopy
- Swallowing assessment
- Imaging or barium swallow
- Referral for endoscopy if needed
Treatment Options
✅ Cause-Based Treatment
- Infection treatment
- Reflux medication
- Swallow therapy
✅ Dietary Modification
- Softer food
- Thickened liquids
✅ Surgical Treatment (Selected Cases)
- Dilation of narrowed areas
- Tumour management
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is difficulty swallowing normal with age?
No. It should always be checked.
Q: Can reflux cause dysphagia?
Yes, chronic reflux can narrow the throat.
Q: Should I avoid food if swallowing hurts?
Seek medical advice first.
When Should You See an ENT Specialist in Kuala Lumpur?
Consult ENT if:
- Symptoms persist
- Swallowing becomes painful
- You have red flag symptoms
ENT assessment ensures safe diagnosis and treatment.
👨⚕️ ENT Specialist’s Perspective
Dysphagia is a red-flag symptom. From an ENT standpoint, direct visualisation of the throat is crucial to exclude cancer and serious narrowing. Early assessment prevents aspiration and malnutrition.
Reviewed by Dr Ameen, ENT Specialist, Kuala Lumpur
