Common Symptoms of a Swallowing Disorder

Many patients with swallowing disorders experience chronic coughing. Coughing is a generalized reaction to stimuli, typically coming from the pharynx or larynx.

With swallowing disorders, coughing is often the result of the premature leaking of food or liquids into the pharynx. Incomplete clearance of food from the food pipe or food coming back up the food pipe can cause spontaneous coughing.

There’s a time association between coughing and swallowing, and when you cough is a major clue. Coughing during or right after swallowing is a symptom that is highly suggestive of a swallowing issue. 

If you have a swallowing disorder, you might feel as if food is stuck in your throat or have a sensation that there’s a lump in your throat. Some patients even describe the sensation as choking.

You may have this sensation even when you aren’t eating or feel it primarily when you first start the swallowing process. The lump sensation may cause difficulty swallowing, and it may take several tries to get food down. 

Regurgitation refers to food and liquids that reenter your throat or mouth after you swallow, and it’s a common symptom of swallowing disorders. The food may come back up almost immediately after swallowing or a few minutes later.

You may feel material or liquid that tastes sour or bitter come back up into your throat or mouth. While this may indicate a swallowing problem, regurgitation is also common with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). That’s why a comprehensive evaluation is necessary to get to the root of your swallowing issues. 

Swallowing problems can also cause the material to enter your nasal passage. The upper pharyngeal constrictor muscles and soft palate work together to close the nasopharynx. Nasal regurgitation can be the result of a problem with this closure mechanism or esophagogastric reflux. 

Vocal cord nodules are benign lesions on the vocal folds. These soft, noncancerous growths can cause problems swallowing and affect your voice. Vocal cord nodules can cause chronic hoarseness and a sensation that you must clear your throat. 

Surgery may be required if the nodules are large or advanced.

You should never ignore the symptoms of a swallowing disorder. If you have trouble swallowing and your symptoms don’t resolve after a short period, it’s time to see a doctor. 

Our throat care specialists at Southern ENT have a wealth of experience diagnosing and treating patients with a full range of swallowing difficulties. 

Our multidisciplinary team offers comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic services to restore swallowing function. Call your local clinic to schedule a swallowing evaluation with a Southern ENT provider today. We have clinics located throughout southern Louisiana, in Thibodaux LA, Houma LA, Raceland LA, Morgan City LA, New Iberia LA, and Youngsville LA.