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. Trouble swallowing can be a sign of a problem in your throat or esophagus.
The esophagus helps move foods and liquids from your mouth to your stomach, and dysphagia usually stems from an issue within the esophagus. A frequent test to investigate dysphagia is a gastroscopy. This gives a clear look at the esophagus to ensure that there is no narrowing or blockage. It is the best test to rule out an esophageal cancer.
It is also an opportunity to take small biopsy samples from the esophagus to rule out inflammation as a cause for swallowing difficulties. If you develop swallowing problems, it is very important that you consult a doctor. The right treatment depends on the cause of the swallowing problem.
It is important that a careful assessment of the symptoms is made, and the appropriate tests are done so that the right focused treatment can be offered. Dr Papageorgiou specializes in treating dysphagia and other issues affecting the gastrointestinal tract.
Untreated dysphagia can lead to serious health issues. Contact Dr Papageorgiou to find out more about dysphagia treatment.