Browse Medications by Everyday Health Concerns: Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Written by Amar Lunagaria
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder
Reviewed by James Wong
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder
Updated Jan 27, 2025
•Published Jan 15, 2025
Fact checkedWhat is Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)?
Difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, is a condition that affects the ability to swallow food or liquids properly. It can range from mild discomfort to a complete inability to swallow. Understanding this condition is important because it can be a sign of a more serious issue. Recognizing symptoms early can help you take the necessary steps to improve your health and quality of life.
Symptoms of Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Pain while swallowing or a sensation of food getting stuck
- Choking or coughing during meals
- Regurgitation of food or liquids
- Unexplained weight loss due to difficulty eating
- Frequent heartburn or acid reflux
What causes Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)?
Dysphagia can be caused by several factors, including:
- Neurological disorders: Conditions like Parkinson's disease, stroke, or multiple sclerosis can impair swallowing.
- Esophageal problems: Issues such as GERD, esophageal cancer, or a narrowing of the esophagus can cause swallowing difficulties.
- Aging: As we age, the muscles and reflexes involved in swallowing may weaken.
- Muscle disorders: Conditions like achalasia affect the muscles in the esophagus.
Risk factors for Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Risk factors for developing dysphagia include:
- Neurological conditions like stroke or Parkinson's disease
- Aging or weakened swallowing muscles
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux
- Esophageal cancer or narrowing of the esophagus
- History of radiation therapy to the neck or chest area
Stop overpaying for prescriptions
Turn your FREE prescription savings into Bitcoin rewards. It’s that simple!
Sign up for free
Instant savings on prescriptions
Up to 5% back in bitcoind rewards
100% Free – No fees, no subscriptions
How is Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) diagnosed?
To diagnose dysphagia, your doctor may:
- Review your medical history and symptoms
- Perform a physical exam and check for signs of difficulty swallowing
- Recommend swallowing tests, such as a barium swallow or endoscopy
- Order neurological tests to assess muscle function
How is Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) treated?
Treatment for dysphagia depends on the underlying cause, but common options include:
- Swallowing therapy: A speech-language pathologist can help improve swallowing techniques.
- Medications: Drugs to manage underlying conditions like GERD or muscle disorders.
- Dietary changes: Modifying the texture of food and liquids to make swallowing easier.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be required to treat structural issues.
Medications for Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Medications may be used to treat underlying conditions that cause dysphagia, such as GERD or muscle disorders. NiHowdy helps users save on these medications, making treatment more affordable.
Can Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) be prevented?
While some causes of dysphagia are unavoidable, preventive steps include:
- Managing chronic conditions like GERD or neurological disorders
- Maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated to support muscle function
- Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, which can impair swallowing
Managing Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) at home
At-home management tips include:
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals to reduce the risk of choking
- Choosing softer foods that are easier to swallow
- Practicing swallowing exercises as recommended by a speech therapist
When should you seek help for Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)?
If you experience persistent or worsening difficulty swallowing, it's important to seek professional help. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve outcomes and prevent complications.
Join for FREE and start saving now!
Turn your prescription savings into Bitcoin rewards. It’s that simple!
Sign up for free
Instant savings on prescriptions
Up to 5% back in bitcoind rewards
100% Free – No fees, no subscriptions
How NiHowdy helps with Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
NiHowdy provides savings and Bitcoin rebates on medications used to treat conditions that cause dysphagia, such as GERD or neurological disorders. These savings make it easier for you to manage your condition without financial strain.
Success stories with Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Roman struggled with dysphagia due to a neurological condition. Thanks to NiHowdy's savings on his medications, he was able to stick to his treatment plan and improve his swallowing ability.
Top Rx Coupons and Bitcoin Rewards
Thousands of prescriptions eligible for instant savings and Bitcoin rewards.
*NiHowdy's prescription pricing is derived from various sources. While we strive to provide accurate estimates, the displayed price may not always match the pharmacy's charge. For precise pricing, please consult your pharmacy and present the BIN/GRP/PCN numbers from your NiHowdy coupon.
