Soundness of mind

What causes you to not be able to swallow properly?

Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, can be caused by a variety of conditions or diseases. Some of the most common causes include stroke, Parkinson’s disease, esophageal cancer, oral cancer, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Other causes include neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), as well as conditions affecting the throat and esophagus, such as tumors, laryngitis, and pharyngitis. Treatment for dysphagia depends on the underlying cause, so it is important to speak with a doctor if you are experiencing difficulty swallowing.

How serious is difficulty swallowing?

Difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia, can be a serious medical condition. Depending on the underlying cause, difficulty swallowing can lead to malnutrition, dehydration, aspiration, and other medical complications. It is important to see a doctor if you are having difficulty swallowing so that the underlying cause can be identified and appropriate treatment can be given.

When should I be worried about difficulty swallowing?

Difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia, is a symptom of an underlying disorder or disease. If you’re having difficulty swallowing, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Common causes of dysphagia include esophageal cancer, stroke, and neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Difficulty swallowing can also be caused by diseases that affect the nervous system, such as myasthenia gravis and multiple sclerosis. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention right away: difficulty swallowing, choking or coughing while eating, pain while swallowing, regurgitation of food, and weight loss.