Why do I have a hard time swallowing?

Dysphagia or difficulty swallowing is a symptom of many different medical conditions. These conditions can include nervous system and brain disorders, muscle disorders, and physical blockages in the throat.

Why do I keep choking on my food?

Dysphagia is the medical term for swallowing difficulties. Some people with dysphagia have problems swallowing certain foods or liquids, while others can’t swallow at all. Other signs of dysphagia include: coughing or choking when eating or drinking. bringing food back up, sometimes through the nose.

What keeps you from choking when you swallow food?

A flap of tissue called the epiglottis sits over the top of the trachea. This flap blocks food and drink from going down into the trachea when you swallow.

How do you swallow food with dysphagia?

Swallowing

1. You may need to swallow two or three times per bite or sip.
2. If food or liquid catches in your throat, cough gently or clear your throat, and swallow again before taking a breath. Repeat if necessary.
3. Concentrate on swallowing frequently.

Is it normal to have difficulty swallowing food?

Key points: Normally you should be able to swallow food or liquids on the first try without difficulty. It is unusual to have gagging, choking, or coughing when trying to swallow; these symptoms could mean that food or liquid is going down the wrong pipe, into your airway.

Why do I Choke when I swallow food?

Conditions that weaken the throat muscles of the oropharynx result in trouble swallowing, because then your body cannot move food from your mouth into the throat and esophagus. People with oropharyngeal swallowing problems often choke or gag when trying to swallow.

Can a person with dysphagia not swallow anything?

Some people with dysphagia have problems swallowing certain foods or liquids, while others can’t swallow at all. Over time, dysphagia can also cause symptoms such as weight loss and repeated chest infections.

What to do when you have a hard time swallowing?

Talk to your doctor when you have a hard time swallowing to be sure there isn’t a serious problem. What is it? Some people find that they have a hard time swallowing. Doctors call this “dysphagia”, which means difficulty swallowing.