Dysphagia in Utah
Ready to Consult a GI Physician?
Find a ProviderWhat is dysphagia?
Dysphagia is a condition that can make it difficult (or even impossible) to swallow food or liquids. There can be several reasons why an individual might have dysphagia. It may be because of muscle spasms in the throat or esophagus because they failed to chew their food well enough or additional internal problems. Dysphagia may also refer to the feeling of food being stalled in the neck or chest area. In the event you have such symptoms and need care for dysphagia in Utah, there is help available. Reach out to our highly trained gastrointestinal specialists at Utah Gastroenterology as soon as possible to learn more about solutions we can offer to assist you in getting back to a better life.
What causes dysphagia?
Dysphagia manifests in two different forms, each with its own underlying causes.
Oropharyngeal dysphagia
Oropharyngeal dysphagia is a condition in which you have difficulty moving the muscles that begin a swallow. Neuromuscular factors are more typical in this form of dysphagia. This is a result of the fact that the muscles found in the mouth, the back portion of your throat, and the top portion of the esophagus directly communicate with the brain. Nerves in these structures can be damaged, causing problems with swallowing.
On some occasions, strictures (narrowed areas in the esophagus) or tumors developing in the rear of the throat can lead to trouble with swallowing.
Esophageal dysphagia
Esophageal dysphagia has a range of causes, a few of the most frequent being:
- Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE)
- Foreign body blockage in the esophagus
- Lack of esophageal muscle strength
- Inflammation in the esophagus due to acid reflux
- Scarring in the esophagus from reflux (GERD)
- Achalasia (the condition wherein the lower esophageal sphincter is unable to relax while swallowing because of a problem with nerve control)
- Spasms in the esophagus
What are the symptoms of dysphagia?
The most commonly reported symptoms of dysphagia include:
- Food impaction (food getting stuck)
- The sensation of food being stuck in one's chest or throat
- Regurgitation
- Aspiration pneumonia
- Lack of ability to swallow
- Pain in the chest
- Gagging or coughing while swallowing
- Acid reflux
- Liquid or food regurgitates through your nose
- Drooling
- Unexplained weight loss
- Hoarseness
- Pain when swallowing
In the event you notice any of the above symptoms of dysphagia or trouble swallowing, reach out to our gastroenterology practice in Utah to schedule a consultation with a specialist.
What are the treatments for dysphagia?
The providers at Utah Gastroenterology are able to offer a range of treatment options to address our patients' unique health needs. The most common dysphagia treatments are:
- Practicing exercises to re-stimulate the nerves that trigger the reflex of swallowing
- Learning different techniques for swallowing
- Surgical intervention
- Dilation of the esophagus
- Medications to reduce acid reflux, muscle relaxers, or corticosteroids
- Special liquid diet or feeding tube (for extreme cases)
We can help your swallowing difficulties subside
Our specialists provide relief for dysphagia in Utah if you find yourself burdened by trouble swallowing. Set up an appointment with a GI physician at Utah Gastroenterology at your earliest convenience if you experience any combination of the above-listed symptoms on a regular basis. It is vital to consult with your doctor without delay if you experience weight loss or vomiting in conjunction with dysphagia symptoms.
Reviews
I owe it all to Dr. Wills and his assistant Kristy. They are the absolute best of the best when it comes to healthcare. I have Crohn’s disease and met Dr Wills at my lowest point following my first surgery from my illness. After diagnosis, he immediately laid out a plan for how we would get my body into remission. His nurse Kristy is an angel on earth, she is always there for me when I have questions or concerns or even just a boost when I need it. Recently my insurance changed and would not allow me to be on the drug used to treat my Crohn’s disease successfully and both Dr Wills and Kristy went to bat for me in every way possible. Appeal after appeal, long hours sending in medical documents, fighting for me. I have never in my lifetime had a doctor or nurse fight for me and my health, I am forever thankful. Not to mention, they won my case and my drug has been approved! Thank you Dr. Wills for taking the time to speak to me about uncomfortable things and for always making me feel comfortable. Your knowledge surpasses the best of the best. Kristy, thank you for always being in my corner and for fighting for me. I am forever thankful to be in their care!
I was very happy with the whole staff all was kind and helpful, Loria wS eonderful she looked at my notes and listened to every thing I said, if I have any other problems I for sure would go back. Thank you all.Clata
Dr. Moore is awesome! I really like him👍
Dr Bridge was great. Staff was great as well!
Dr. Peter Fenton is seriously the best!! I went through several gastroenterologist before him with no diagnosis and no relief until I found him. His knowledge is rare in his field, he keeps up to date with everything, kind, patient and really cares.
2002
Total Reviews
4.9
Average Rating