Swallowing Difficulty (Dysphagia)
Swallowing Difficulty (Dysphagia) Services
At Spokane ENT, we provide comprehensive evaluation of swallowing difficulty (dysphagia), a condition that can affect eating, drinking, and quality of life. Dysphagia may present as food or liquids sticking in the throat, pain when swallowing, a sensation of a lump in the throat (globus), or choking or coughing with meals. Causes can include laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), muscle or nerve disorders, structural narrowing, inflammation, or other conditions. Our team performs thorough evaluation to identify the cause and guide appropriate treatment, which may include medical management, swallow therapy, or referral for further evaluation or surgery when indicated.
We utilize advanced diagnostic techniques to evaluate swallowing difficulty, including detailed history taking to understand your symptoms, their onset, and whether they occur with solids, liquids, or both. Our evaluation includes examination of the throat and neck, and often laryngoscopy to visualize the throat and larynx. We look for signs of inflammation, structural abnormalities, or reflux-related changes. When indicated, we may order imaging studies such as a modified barium swallow or referral to gastroenterology for endoscopic evaluation of the esophagus. We also assess for conditions that require prompt attention, such as head and neck cancer. Our goal is to identify the cause and connect you with the right treatment.
Our treatment approach depends on the identified cause. For LPR-related symptoms, reflux management often improves swallowing. For muscle or coordination issues, swallow therapy with a speech-language pathologist may be recommended. When structural causes or more complex conditions are identified, we coordinate with gastroenterologists, surgeons, or other specialists. Our goal is to help you swallow safely and comfortably. For related conditions, see our Laryngopharyngeal Reflux and Head & Neck Cancer pages.
Swallowing Difficulty Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Causes include LPR/reflux, muscle or nerve disorders, structural narrowing, tumors, or inflammation. Evaluation with endoscopy helps identify the cause and guide treatment.
See an ENT if you have persistent difficulty swallowing, food sticking in the throat, pain when swallowing, weight loss, or choking with meals. Early evaluation is important.
Evaluation includes a detailed history, examination of the throat and neck, and often laryngoscopy or endoscopy to visualize the throat and esophagus. We may recommend further imaging or swallow studies when indicated.
Yes. Laryngopharyngeal reflux can cause throat irritation, globus sensation (lump in throat), and difficulty swallowing. Treatment of LPR often improves these symptoms.
Treatment depends on the cause. It may include reflux management, dietary modifications, swallow therapy with a speech pathologist, or referral for procedures or surgery when structural causes are identified.