Swallowing disorders refer to a range of health problems that prevent food or liquid from moving from the mouth into the stomach. Swallowing disorders are more common, especially in older people, and can also be caused by various health problems, such as nervous system damage, stroke or neuromuscular diseases.
Swallowing disorders are often called dysphagia, and symptoms may include difficulty chewing food or liquid in the mouth, a feeling of choking or coughing while swallowing, hoarseness, a blocked oesophagus, or nausea.
Treatment of swallowing disorders depends on their underlying cause. Treatment may consist of various modalities such as dietary changes, exercises, medications, or strengthening the tongue and throat muscles to improve the swallowing reflex. In some cases, surgical intervention may be required.
People with swallowing disorders should be evaluated by an otolaryngologist or gastroenterologist. These specialists can identify the cause of the swallowing disorder and recommend appropriate treatment methods.