At Austin Gastroenterology, we know that eating and drinking are things most people take for granted–until swallowing becomes painful, difficult, or even impossible. This condition, called dysphagia, can affect anyone, but it’s especially common in older adults and people with certain medical conditions.
If you’ve noticed food “sticking” in your throat, coughing or chocking while eating, or unexplained weight loss, it’s important to get evaluated by a gastroenterologist. Dysphagia is more than an inconvenience–it can lead to serious complications, including malnutrition and aspiration pneumonia.
What is Dysphagia?
Dysphagia means difficulty swallowing. It can occur in the mouth, throat, or esophagus–the muscular tube connecting your throat to your stomach. Depending on where the problem originates, dysphagia is generally classified into two main types:
- Oropharyngeal Dysphagia – Difficulty starting a swallow due to issues in the mouth or throat.
- Esophageal Dysphagia – A sensation of food getting stuck in the chest area, often caused by narrowing, inflammation, or abnormal motility of the esophagus.
Common Causes of Dysphagia
In Austin, we see patients with esophageal dysphagia caused by a variety of conditions, including:
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) – Chronic acid exposure can narrow the esophagus due to inflammation (esophagitis) or swelling.
- Esophageal strictures, webs, rings – These narrowings may result from inflammation, injury, or long-term reflux.
- Eosinophilic esophagitis – An allergic inflammatory condition increasingly diagnosed in Central Texas, possibly linked to environmental allergens.
- Motility disorders – Conditions such as achalasia or disorders of peristalsis (squeezing or movement of the esophagus)
- Infections – Infections by fungi or certain viruses can cause trouble swallowing
- Medications – Certain medications can cause direct injury to the lining of the esophagus
- Esophageal cancer – though less common, this is a serious cause that requires early detection.
Symptoms to Watch For
If you live in the Austin area and experience any of these symptoms, schedule an evaluation promptly:
- Coughing or choking when eating or drinking
- Sensation of food, liquids or medications sticking in the throat or chest
- Unexplained weight loss
- Frequent heartburn
- Regurgitation of food or liquids
How Dysphagia is Diagnosed
At Austin Gastroenterology, we use advanced diagnostic tools to pinpoint the cause of dysphagia, including:
- Upper endoscopy (EGD) – A minimally invasive procedure to visualize and, if needed, treat narrowing in the esophagus.
- Esophageal manometry – Measures muscle contractions in the esophagus.
Our board-certified gastroenterologists perform these procedures at our four Austin Endoscopy Centers in North Austin, South Austin, Bee Cave, and Leander, so patients have convenient access to expert care close to home.
Expert Insight: A Local Physician’s Perspective
Dr. Cecelia Zhang, a board-certified gastroenterologist with Austin Gastroenterology, emphasizes the importance of early evaluation:
“Difficulty swallowing is something people often try to ignore, but it’s one of the most important symptoms we evaluate. Sometimes it’s a simple fix, like inflammation from reflux. Other times, it can signal a more serious condition that needs immediate attention. The good news is that with modern diagnostic tools and treatments, most causes of dysphagia can be managed effectively and comfortably.”
Treatment Options for Dysphagia
Your treatment plan depends on the underlying cause and may include:
- Medications for acid reflux
- Dilation to widen narrowed areas of the esophagus
- Dietary modifications to make swallowing safer and easier
- Swallow therapy with a speech-language pathologist
- Treatment for inflammation in cases of eosinophilic esophagitis
Why Local Expertise Matters
Environmental allergens and dietary habits unique to Central Texas can influence esophageal health. Our physicians not only treat dysphagia but also understand the local factors that affect patients living in and around Austin.
Don’t Ignore Swallowing Problems
While occasional difficulty swallowing might seem harmless, persistent symptoms should never be ignored. Early diagnosis can prevent complications, improve quality of life, and–most importantly–detect serious conditions when they are most treatable.
If you or a loved one in the Austin area is experiencing symptoms of dysphagia, request and appointment with Austin Gastroenterology today. Our expert team is hear to help you get back to eating and drinking with comfort and confidence.
