The Various Causes of Dysphagia and Swallowing Problems

By Jo Alelsto

For most of us, swallowing is such a usual and ordinary function that we don't pay much attention to it. We just swallow and that's it. But did you know that swallowing is complex function that cannot be done with the aid of about 50 pairs of muscles and nerves?

Let us simplify the mechanisms involved in swallowing. You masticate food and propel to the throat with the tongue pushing the food to the back of the throat. Nerves from this area send messages to the brain to activate the swallowing reflex. Muscular contractions move the food from the throat to the upper portion of the esophagus. The upper esophageal sphincter relaxes to allow the bolus (food mass) to pass through. Muscular contractions (peristalsis) propel the bolus through the esophagus until it reaches the stomach, passing through the bottom esophageal sphincter.

Any problem, disease, or abnormality that affects the nerves and tissues of the throat can cause swallowing difficulties. There are two types of swallowing disorder, namely the esophageal and the oropharyngeal dysphagia. People who experience the first type feel a sensation of food getting stuck in the throat.

Swallowing trouble can be due to a number of causes. One of the causes of dysphagia and swallowing problems is achalasia, which is a condition characterized by inability of the lower esophageal sphincter to relax. This causes food to not enter the stomach. Regurgitation of food to the throat is highly likely in this case.

Age related weakening of the esophageal lining is possible. Hence, the elderly may suffer from difficulty swallowing as the esophagus loses muscular strength. However, aged people may suffer from swallowing disorder due to an underlying condition. As a result, medical evaluation must be sought.

Narrowing of the esophagus is another disorder that does not allow normal passage of food to the stomach. Large masses of food can become trapped within the esophagus and cause discomfort. Narrowing of the esophageal lining can be due to tumors or damage caused by acid reflux. Speaking of acid reflux (GERD), it is one of those conditions that can injure the esophageal and pharyngeal lining. The acid damages the lining of the esophagus and the lining tissue becomes thick. A specialist can help you deal with acid reflux if it is the culprit.

Food may also be the cause. For instance, food allergies can cause irritation of the throat and esophageal lining, which leads to inflammation (esophagitis). Also, swallowing large pieces of food can cause obstructive swallowing difficulty. Kids can swallow objects that can get stuck in their throats, too.

Neurological disorders can lead to swallowing difficulties and must be diagnosed promptly. Problems with the nerves and muscles can be the cause of throat weakness which makes it troublesome to propel food from the mouth to the throat and to the upper esophagus. Swallowing may cause food or liquids to get into the airway, an instance that may lead to a medical emergency. Aspiration of liquids can cause development of pneumonia. People with Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and muscular dystrophy may suffer from swallowing disorders. Stroke patients may also become dysphagic and those who had spinal cord injury may also suffer from difficulty swallowing.

Swallowing disorder is common in infants who were born with abnormalities. Premature birth, cerebral palsy, meningitis, and cleft palate are some of the abnormal conditions that give rise to problems in swallowing. There are also cases when ingestion becomes difficult for some unknown reason. Stress and anxiety may play some role to some extent. For example, some people may find it hard to swallow pills and tablets but can swallow food just fine. If you are suddenly unable to ingest food properly, consult your physician.