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Swallowing difficulty - MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia
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Swallowing difficulty

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Throat anatomy
Throat anatomy

Alternative Names    Return to top

Dysphagia; Impaired swallowing

Definition    Return to top

Difficulty when swallowing is the sensation that food is stuck in the throat or upper chest. This may be felt high in the neck or lower down, behind the breastbone (sternum).

Considerations    Return to top

Swallowing is a complex act that involves the mouth, throat area, and esophagus (the tube that moves food to the stomach). Many nerves and muscles control how these body parts work. Part of the act of swallowing is under voluntary control, which means you are aware of controlling the action. However, much of swallowing is involuntary.

Problems at any point -- from chewing food and moving it into the back of the mouth to moving the food into the stomach -- can result in difficulty swallowing.

Chest pain, the feeling of food stuck in the throat, or heaviness or pressure in the neck or upper chest are frequently the result of swallowing difficulties.

Causes    Return to top

There are many different causes of swallowing difficulty.

Causes may include:

Home Care    Return to top

Eat slowly, and chew food thoroughly. If a person suddenly shows signs of choking and difficulty breathing, the Heimlich maneuver should be performed immediately.

You may have an easier time swallowing liquids or pureed foods than solids. Avoid very cold or very hot foods if you notice that they worsen the problem.

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call your provider if the problem continues, even if the symptoms come and go.

Tell your doctor about any other symptoms you may have including:

What to Expect at Your Office Visit    Return to top

Your doctor will perform a physical examination and ask questions about your medical history and symptoms, including:

The following tests may be done:

Update Date: 11/13/2007

Updated by: Christian Stone, M.D., Division of Gastroenterology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2009, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.


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