1.9K Reviews    |    4.7 Star Rating    |    20+ years of experience    |    72k+ Patients Treated

Dysphagia

At GastroDoxs, we specialize in diagnosing and treating dysphagia with a comprehensive and patient-focused approach. Our expert team uses advanced diagnostic techniques to accurately identify the causes of swallowing difficulties

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Bharat Pothuri
Symptoms

What is Dysphagia?

Occasional pain or trouble swallowing when you eat too fast isn't cause for concern. When it happens regularly, or it's so painful that you're unable to eat well, it could be a sign of dysphagia, a more serious condition that requires treatment. Dysphagia is most common in older adults, but can occur at any age for numerous reasons.

Common Causes of Dysphagia

  • Esophageal Disorders: Achalasia, esophageal spasms, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
  • Muscular Disorders: Myasthenia gravis, muscular dystrophy.
  • Obstructions: Tumors, strictures, or foreign bodies in the esophagus.
  • Aging: Age-related changes in the muscles and nerves used for swallowing.

When to Seek Medical Help?

Seek medical attention if you experience:

  • Persistent difficulty swallowing
  • Pain while swallowing
  • Unintended weight loss
  • Regurgitation of food
  • Frequent choking or coughing during meals
  • Feeling of food being stuck in the throat or chest
Diagnosis

Our Comprehensive Diagnostic Approach

Detailed Symptom Review:

  • Discussing your symptoms in detail, including frequency, severity, and any associated factors.
  • Identifying associated symptoms like weight loss, regurgitation, or coughing during meals.

Medical History Evaluation:

  • Reviewing your medical history, including any previous conditions or treatments that may contribute to dysphagia.
  • Assessing lifestyle factors such as diet, smoking, and alcohol consumption that may affect swallowing.

Advanced Diagnostic Tests:

  • Barium Swallow Study: X-ray examination to observe the swallowing process.
  • Endoscopy: Allows us to examine the esophagus and stomach for abnormalities.
  • Esophageal Manometry: Measures the rhythmic muscle contractions of the esophagus.
  • Videofluoroscopic Swallowing Study: A real-time X-ray video of the swallowing process.
Management

Personalized Treatment Plans For You

Based on your diagnosis, our team will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Treatment options may include:

  • Dietary Modifications: Adjusting food textures and consistencies to make swallowing easier.
  • Swallowing Therapy: Exercises and techniques to improve swallowing function.
  • Medications: To treat underlying conditions like GERD or esophageal spasms.
  • Surgical Interventions: Procedures to remove obstructions or dilate strictures in severe cases.

Why Choose GastroDoxs?

  • Expert Care: Our gastroenterologists are highly trained and experienced in diagnosing and treating dysphagia and related conditions.
  • Comprehensive Approach: We combine advanced diagnostics with personalized treatment plans to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.
  • Patient-Centered: Your comfort and well-being are our top priorities. We provide compassionate care and support throughout your treatment journey.

Schedule Your Consultation Today!

Don't let dysphagia affect your quality of life. Contact GastroDoxs in Houston, Texas, to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards effective management and better digestive health. Visit our website or call our office to make an appointment. Trust us to help you manage your condition and improve your quality of life.

9K

We've successfully treated more than 9k patients with dysphagia, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Dysphagia mean in terms of health issues?

Dysphagia can indicate various underlying conditions, including digestive disorders, infections, inflammation, or more serious health concerns requiring medical evaluation.

What are the common symptoms of Dysphagia?

Symptoms may include discomfort, pain, bloating, nausea, changes in bowel habits, or other digestive issues, depending on the underlying cause.

How is Dysphagia diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a physical examination, patient history review, lab tests, imaging, and sometimes specialized procedures to determine the exact cause.

What treatment options are available for Dysphagia?

Treatment may include medications, dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, hydration, stress management, or surgical intervention based on severity.

How can Dysphagia be prevented?

Maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, managing stress, regular exercise, avoiding known triggers, and routine medical check-ups help prevent Dysphagia.

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