Difficulty Swallowing

Video Block
Double-click here to add a video by URL or embed code. Learn more

Basics

  • Difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, is the sensation of having trouble moving food or liquids from the mouth to the stomach.

Common causes

  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

  • Structural issues like narrowing of the esophagus.

  • Certain medications that may cause dry mouth.

When it's okay to monitor symptoms

  • If difficulty swallowing is occasional and associated with dry mouth or eating too quickly.

  • When it improves with changes in eating habits or drinking more water.

When to talk to a doctor

  • Persistent or worsening difficulty swallowing.

  • Frequent choking or coughing while eating.

  • Unexplained weight loss.

When to seek emergency care

  • Sudden onset of severe difficulty swallowing.

  • If difficulty swallowing is accompanied by chest pain or the inability to breathe.

  • If difficulty swallowing is with double vision, trouble speaking or other vertigo or being off balance

Home remedies and over-the-counter medications

  • Take smaller bites and chew food thoroughly.

  • Drink plenty of water while eating.

  • Over-the-counter medications for acid reflux.