Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): Causes, Treatment and Home Remedies

Difficulty swallowing is not only annoying, it can also be dangerous. Here you can find out everything you need to know about the disturbed swallowing.

We do it every day, usually unconsciously and unnoticed, but it is only when problems occur during swallowing that we realize how important swallowing is. Swallowing problems can not only be extremely annoying but can also become dangerous. Here you can find out everything you need to know.

Causes of difficulty swallowing

The difficulty swallowing, medics speak of dysphagia, includes both pain in swallowing and difficulty in swallowing. Difficulty swallowing is not an independent clinical picture, but a symptom that has its origin in another disease.

The causes of swallowing problems are manifold, as different organs and body regions are involved in the swallowing process. For the correct treatment of the swallowing disorder it is important to know the cause.

• Mouth-throat: The most common cause of swallowing problems are diseases of the mouth and throat. These include a simple cold, the flu, accompanied by sore throat and irritation of the throat, but also tonsillitis, laryngitis, pharyngitis or an irritated pharyngeal mucosa. A fungal infection of the mouth or throat can also cause problems when swallowing.
• Reflux: Many people suffer from a disturbed function of the sphincter muscle at the stomach entrance, which can lead to acid reflux through the esophagus and heartburn, so-called reflux. The stomach acid can cause swallowing disorders and pain when swallowing.
• Thyroid gland: A mechanical cause that can interfere with swallowing is an enlarged thyroid gland. In rare cases, swallowing difficulties are caused by a tumour, but in most cases the thyroid gland is enlarged due to an underfunction caused by iodine deficiency.
• Tumors: Another mechanical trigger of swallowing disorders can be tumors in the area of the esophagus, trachea or throat.
• Neurological diseases: Strokes, dementia, multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease can be responsible for chronic swallowing difficulties. The swallowing process is no longer easily controlled, and food can even enter the lungs, which can lead to complications.
• Psychological factors: In rare cases, swallowing difficulties can be caused by psychological problems.
• Allergic reactions: Swelling of the throat area as a result of food allergies can cause difficulty in swallowing.
• Chronic hiccups: The very rare chronic hiccup can lead to dysphagia.

Swallowing disorders and swallowing pain: When is it advisable to see a doctor?

You should definitely consult a doctor if the dysphagia:

• occurs suddenly and for no apparent reason.
• lasts longer.
• interferes with food intake.
• was triggered by allergic reactions.
• is caused by swelling of the mouth and throat.
• has occurred after accidentally swallowing foreign bodies or chemicals.

Medicines and home remedies

In the vast majority of cases, pain in swallowing has its origin in colds or inflammations in the throat and pharynx area. This is how you can treat your swallowing pain:

• Throat tablets and lozenges: Special lozenges are available in pharmacies for sore throats. The soothing throat lozenges usually relieve your symptoms quickly. Here you can find other household remedies for sore throats.
• Salt water: If the throat lozenges do not have the desired effect, you can resort to salt water. Dissolve a quarter teaspoon of salt in a glass of water and gargle with the mixture.
• Drink a lot: If you have a sore throat or a sore throat you should drink a lot, preferably warm tea or hot lemon.
• High humidity: Make sure the ambient air is sufficiently humidified. You can distribute a few bowls of water in your home. The humid air ensures that your throat does not dry out, helps against dry mouth, is beneficial for your sore throat and relieves your cough.
• Rest: And as always, if you are not feeling well, it means: rest and avoid physical exertion.