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Symptoms of a Swallowing Disorder

Common Symptoms of a Swallowing Disorder

Swallowing disorders are common, especially in the elderly, and may cause dehydration, weight loss, aspiration pneumonia, and many other health issues. Learn the common symptoms of a swallowing disorder and get expert care by visiting us at Southern ENT Associates. Contact us today for more information or to book an appointment if you’re ready to see one of our knowledgeable specialists. We have convenient locations to serve you in Thibodaux LA, Houma LA, Raceland LA, Morgan City LA, New Iberia LA, and Youngsville LA.

Symptoms of a Swallowing Disorder Near Me in Thibodaux LA, Houma LA, Raceland LA, Morgan City LA, New Iberia LA, and Youngsville LA
Symptoms of a Swallowing Disorder Near Me in Thibodaux LA, Houma LA, Raceland LA, Morgan City LA, New Iberia LA, and Youngsville LA

Table of Contents:

Coughing
The sensation that food is stuck
Food coming back up the food pipe
Food entering the nasal passage
Hoarse voice

Swallowing is an automatic process. You swallow without even thinking about it. While the majority of swallowing issues are brief and short-lived, some may be indicative of a more serious condition, like nerve dysfunction. 

Dysphagia is the medical term for difficulty swallowing, and there is a wide range of causes. It’s helpful to know how to spot the signs of a potential swallowing disorder so you know when to see a doctor.

Our ENT physicians at Southern ENT specialize in diagnosing and treating swallowing, voice, and airway disorders. If you use your voice professionally, our team can provide specialized care. Let’s discuss some of the telltale signs that you may have an underlying swallowing issue.

Coughing


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. 

The sensation that food is stuck


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. 

Food coming back up the food pipe


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. 

Food entering the nasal passage


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. 

Hoarse voice


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.

Southern ENT Associates in Louisiana

Thibodaux, LA

  • 604 North Acadia Road Suite 101, Thibodaux, LA 70301
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Houma, LA

  • 5040 West Main Street Suite 2, Houma, LA 70360
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Raceland, LA

Morgan City, LA

New Iberia, LA

  • 2308 East Main Street Suite B, New Iberia, LA 70560
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Youngsville, LA

  • 1516 Chemin Metairie Road Suite A-1, Youngsville, LA 70592
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