Hartford Hospital

Today's HealthDay News


Search for

Health Tip: When It's Difficult to Swallow

Last Updated: 2010-Jul-01  ::  (HealthDay)

(HealthDay News) -- Dysphagia is the medical term for having difficulty swallowing.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers this list of potential causes:

  • Gulping your food too fast or taking big bites.
  • Having insufficient water with food.
  • Eating while you lie down.
  • Having an injury or disorder affecting the muscles and nerves, such as a stroke, Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis.
  • Having damage to the esophagus, such as scar tissue from acid reflux.
  • Having health problems that apply pressure to the esophagus, such as an enlarged heart or thyroid.
2010Copyright © 2010 HealthDay. All rights reserved.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.