Difficulty swallowing, medically known as dysphagia, is a common concern that can affect eating, drinking, and overall quality of life. Some people describe a feeling that food is stuck in the throat or chest, while others may experience pain, coughing, or discomfort when swallowing.

Although occasional swallowing difficulty may happen due to eating too quickly or temporary irritation, repeated or persistent symptoms should not be ignored. At Dr. Rami Hamed Center (DRHC) Dubai, our gastroenterology specialists provide advanced evaluation and treatment options to identify the cause of swallowing problems and improve digestive health.

What Causes Difficulty Swallowing?

Swallowing involves coordinated movements of the throat and esophagus (food pipe). Problems can occur when there is an issue with the muscles, nerves, or structure of the esophagus.

Common causes of difficulty swallowing include:

• Esophageal motility disorders, where the muscles do not contract properly to move food
• GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), which can cause inflammation and narrowing of the esophagus
• Esophageal strictures (narrowing of the food pipe)
• Achalasia, a condition where the lower esophageal muscle does not relax properly
• Inflammation or irritation of the esophagus
• Previous injury or surgery affecting swallowing function

When Should Difficulty Swallowing Be Checked?

You should consult a gastroenterologist if you experience:

• Food or liquids feeling stuck while swallowing
• Difficulty swallowing that is getting worse over time
• Pain during swallowing
• Frequent choking or coughing while eating
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent acid reflux or chest discomfort

Early assessment can help identify the cause and prevent complications related to poor nutrition or repeated irritation of the esophagus.

Which Tests Are Used to Diagnose Swallowing Problems?

Gastroscopy

Gastroscopy is one of the most commonly used tests to evaluate swallowing difficulties. During this procedure, a thin flexible camera is used to examine the inside of the esophagus, stomach, and upper digestive tract.

Gastroscopy can help detect:

• Inflammation caused by acid reflux
• Esophageal narrowing or strictures
• Ulcers or irritation
• Abnormal growths or structural changes

Esophageal Manometry

Esophageal manometry is a specialized test that measures the strength and coordination of the muscles in the esophagus during swallowing.

This test is particularly helpful for diagnosing conditions such as:

• Achalasia
• Esophageal spasms
• Other swallowing and motility disorders

Endoscopic Dilatation

If swallowing difficulty is caused by a narrowed esophagus, your specialist may recommend endoscopic dilatation.

This minimally invasive procedure gently widens the narrowed area, allowing food to pass more easily. The need for dilatation depends on the cause and severity of the narrowing.

How Is Difficulty Swallowing Treated?

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Options may include:

• Medications to manage acid reflux or inflammation
• Dietary adjustments and swallowing guidance
• Endoscopic procedures to treat narrowing
• Specialized treatments for esophageal muscle disorders

A proper diagnosis is essential because swallowing problems can have different causes, and treatment should be tailored to each patient.