What causes swallowing disorders?
Any interruption in the swallowing process can cause difficulties. It may be due to simple causes such as poor teeth, ill fitting dentures, or a common cold. One of the most common causes of dysphagia is gastroesophageal reflux. This occurs when stomach acid moves up the esophagus to the pharynx, causing discomfort. Other causes may include: stroke; progressive neurologic disorder; the presence of a tracheostomy tube; a paralyzed or unmoving vocal cord; a tumor in the mouth, throat, or esophagus; or surgery in the head, neck, or esophageal areas. Symptoms of Swallowing Disorders may include: Drooling A feeling that food or liquid is sticking in the throat Discomfort in the throat or chest (when gastroesophageal reflux is present) A sensation of a foreign body or “lump” in the throat Weight loss and inadequate nutrition due to prolonged or more significant problems with swallowing, and Coughing or choking caused by bits of food, liquid, or saliva not passing easily during swallowing, an
