Common Causes of Difficulty Swallowing and When to See an ENT

Desert Ear, Nose & Throat Medical Group is a skilled team of ENT professionals who can help with various common issues. For example, if you have difficulty swallowing in Rancho Mirage, CA, there’s a good chance you need our team of specialists to help. This problem might require a visit with our specialists to ensure you can eat safely and properly.

Common Causes and Triggers 

Problems with swallowing can have many potential underlying triggers. Conditions like acid reflux, throat infections, medications, muscle weakness, tumors, vocal cord paralysis, strokes, Gravis disease, Parkinson’s disease, dental problems, multiple sclerosis, and even bad dentures can make it hard for many people to swallow their food or spit properly. 

More serious underlying problems may include:

• Diffuse spasms in the esophagus
• Issues with stomach muscles
• Foreign bodies stuck in your throat 
• Scarring on your esophageal ring 
• GERD may cause damage to the throat 
• Cancer or cancer treatment 
• Hyperthyroidism that may put pressure on your esophagus 

These concerns are often severe and require you to work carefully with a skilled team of treatment specialists. Does that mean every instance of poor swallowing needs an ENT team? Not necessarily, but keeping our number on hand is a good idea if this problem continues.

When to See Us

Should you call Desert Ear, Nose & Throat Medical Group if you have difficulty swallowing in Rancho Mirage, CA? That depends on a few factors. A one-time problem, such as an issue swallowing for a day due to a sore throat or other triggers, probably doesn’t require working with an ENT. However, if you keep having persistent problems, call us ASAP.

Here are a few symptoms you should watch for when you’re struggling to swallow:

• A hoarse voice that seems to get worse the longer you can’t swallow
• Lightheadedness or any shortness of breath (very serious; call us NOW)
• Unexplained weight loss that’s likely caused by underlying issues
• Lumps in your neck or lymph nodes that could indicate many problems 
• Symptoms that stay consistent beyond one week and refuse to leave 
• Any blood in your bowel movements or saliva (interior bleeding may be at play)

Call Us to Get Started

Desert Ear, Nose & Throat Medical Group can help diagnose any problems causing your difficulty swallowing in Rancho Mirage, CA. Our team of specialists is more than capable of helping you and will work hard to ensure you get the support you need. Call us at (760) 340-4566 to learn more and get started on your path toward safer and healthier eating and breathing.