Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) affects 15 million Americans, interfering with their ability to eat and drink, and increasing their risk of health complications like pneumonia. At Gotham Gastroenterology, with locations throughout New York City in the Midtown East and Financial District neighborhoods of Manhattan, New York, and Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn, the skilled gastroenterologists can diagnose and treat dysphagia. They offer 24-hour esophageal pH impedance and esophageal motility studies done right in the office. To schedule a dysphagia evaluation, call the office or book online today.
Normal swallowing of food and liquid requires a great deal of coordination between the muscles in your mouth, throat (pharynx), and esophagus. Dysphagia is swallowing difficulty that affects the normal function and coordination of your swallow.
There are two categories of dysphagia:
Signs and symptoms of dysphagia may depend on the type. Common symptoms include:
Without proper care, dysphagia may lead to malnutrition or chronic lung disease.
The team at Gotham Gastroenterology performs a comprehensive evaluation and conducts a number of diagnostic tests to diagnose dysphagia. During your exam, your gastroenterologist asks detailed questions about your symptoms and medical history and performs a physical exam.
To confirm or rule out dysphagia and type, the team offers in-office testing, including:
The experts at Gotham Gastroenterology develop an individualized treatment plan for dysphagia based on the type of dysphagia you have, the severity of your swallowing disorder, and your symptoms.
Treatments may include:
In some cases, surgery to correct the underlying cause of your dysphagia, such as an esophageal tumor, may be needed to restore normal swallowing function.
Dysphagia is a serious condition that affects your physical and emotional health and your social life. To schedule an evaluation with experts in the field, call Gotham Gastroenterology or request an appointment online today.