Difficulty Swallowing in Little Rock, AR
Ready to Consult a GI Physician?
Find a ProviderWhat is trouble swallowing?
Trouble swallowing occurs when there is trouble moving liquids and food from the mouth, throat, and food pipe before moving through the stomach. Swallowing problems can point to a sign of numerous other problems, from muscle contractions to allergic food reactions. It is crucial to identify the reason for the issue so the ideal treatment can be started to avoid suffering a major condition. If you want to find out about the therapy options we offer for difficulty swallowing in Little Rock, AR, contact our gastroenterological providers at GastroArkansas to request a consultation.
What leads to trouble swallowing?
The causes of difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, could stem from more than just one singular factor. If you have a hard time swallowing, it can be due to an underlying condition that has been undetected, a food allergy, or inflammation in your food pipe. The following are a few reasons that trouble passing food from your mouth to your stomach might be occurring:
- Hypothyroidism
- Scarring from gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Nervous system conditions
- Esophageal rings (bands of tissue that tighten the inner esophagus)
- Achalasia, which occurs when the LES (lower esophageal sphincter) doesn't work properly
- Foreign bodies in the esophagus or throat
- Esophageal contractions
Dysphagia can impact individuals of various age groups but is seen more commonly in older people. If you want to learn more information about the possible reasons for difficulty swallowing and the treatment options that are available to you, request a consultation with the gastroenterological provider at a GastroArkansas location near you.
What are the symptoms of trouble swallowing?
Difficulty swallowing could signify a variety of conditions. If you are dealing with a hard time swallowing, it is essential to seek care as fast as you're able to ensure that you can breathe and eat safely. The main signs of swallowing difficulties include things like:
- Strained or raspy voice
- Pain in the throat while swallowing
- Food coming back up into your throat
- Inability to swallow
- Shortness of breath
- Regular heartburn
- Feeling like food is staying in the esophagus
Request a consultation with a GI provider in Little Rock, AR now if you have any number of the above-listed problems regularly. It is important to see your gastroenterologist if losing weight or throwing up accompanies your dysphagia.
What are the treatments for dysphagia?
The treatment for dysphagia starts with identifying the source of the difficulty. If the reason is food allergies, the appropriate measures will be taken to reduce inflammation, and you will be asked to avoid consuming the food. If there is swelling of the esophageal lining, our team will identify the reason, determining if it is due to a bacterial or viral infection (irritation and swelling in the esophagus), or gastroesophageal reflux disease. For patients with muscle contractions in the throat, our providers might recommend taking medications to relax the muscles or surgery. Let the gastroenterological providers at GastroArkansas help you regain your ability to swallow.
Get the relief you need
If you've suffered difficulty with swallowing and are hoping to find an experienced gastroenterologist to help you care for the problem, contact the GI providers at GastroArkansas. Our staff will appropriately identify the source and find a solution that would work for your needs. Please do not delay in getting help, as swallowing trouble could signal a more serious problem that requires immediate attention. If you require care for difficulty swallowing in Little Rock, AR, request a consultation now to get the attention you need.
Reviews
Great doctor and friendly assistant
Dr Backstedt shows a sincere interest in his patient, following up personally and a call from his office.
Very professional and answered ALL my questions.
Dr. Davis was professional, through, and answered my questions. He explained my treatment so that it was easily understood.
He is such a kind and caring doctor! I feel blessed to have him looking after my son. He is always attentive and answers questions and explains things in a way that makes everything easier to understand.
10
Total Reviews
4.9
Average Rating