Swallowing Difficulty

Swallowing involves the action of nerves and muscles in the mouth, throat, and esophagus (the "food tube" to the stomach). Most swallowing problems are associated with sore throats, and will resolve within a day or two. Thick or scanty saliva can sometimes interfere with swallowing. This can be due to dehydration or side effects from medications.

There are two types of swallowing problems, painful and difficult. Painful swallowing is usually related to inflamed tissues. It may be caused by:

• infections such as strep throat

• damage to the tissues due to poisons that burn the mouth, throat, or esophagus or

• radiation treatments or neck surgery

Difficult swallowing may result from a number of conditions, such as:

• a constriction that narrows the esophagus

• a growth that creates a blockage, such as a benign or cancerous tumor

• an obstruction, such as an object lodged in the throat

• nerve or muscle problems, such as lack of muscle coordination to move the food from the throat to the stomach (as may occur after a stroke)

• spasms or tightening of muscle rings that narrow the throat

• a feeling of having a lump in the throat when no lump is present or

• diseases such as Lou Gehrig's disease, botulism, paralysis, Parkinson's disease, lead poisoning, lupus, and tetanus

Swallowing problems can increase the risk of choking. Eat only in the upright position. Serve only soft, easily swallowed foods such as puddings, scrambled eggs, and hot cereal.

Seek medical care for sudden changes in swallowing that are not painful, or if swallowing problems persist for more than a few days.

Call for emergency help if:

• the airway is blocked

• swallowing is impossible or

• uncontrolled drooling occurs

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