Difficulty Swallowing in Indianapolis, IN
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Find a ProviderWhat does it mean to have trouble swallowing?
Difficulty swallowing (also called dysphagia) may be diagnosed if a patient has problems moving food or liquids through their mouth, throat, and esophagus down into the stomach. Swallowing difficulties can be a symptom of many different conditions, ranging from muscle spasms to food allergies. It is important to identify the reason for the issue to allow the ideal therapy to be rendered and help you avoid a more dangerous problem. If you want to find out more about the treatment options we provide for difficulty swallowing in Indianapolis, IN, reach out to our GI providers at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology to schedule an appointment.
What causes dysphagia?
There are multiple factors that can result in dysphagia. When you have a hard time moving food from your mouth to your stomach, it could owe to an underlying disease that has been undiagnosed, an allergic reaction, or swelling in your esophagus. The following are a few explanations for why you might have trouble moving food through your esophagus:
- Foreign bodies in the throat or esophagus
- Enlarged thyroid gland
- Esophageal contractions
- Esophageal rings (folds of tissue that tighten the inside of the esophagus)
- Achalasia, which occurs when the LES (lower esophageal sphincter) doesn't relax at the right time
- Scarring from GERD
- Nervous system conditions
Difficulty swallowing may impact those of all age groups but is seen more frequently in older people. If you want to find out more information about the various reasons for difficulty swallowing and the therapies that are available to you, arrange a visit with the GI physicians at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology.
What are the signs of dysphagia?
There are many conditions that may make it difficult to swallow. When experiencing trouble swallowing, it is important to get care as fast as you're able to ensure that you can breathe and eat normally. The primary symptoms of swallowing difficulties are things such as:
- Strained or raspy voice
- Discomfort in the esophagus when swallowing
- Regular acid reflux
- Regurgitation of food
- Difficulty breathing
- No ability to swallow
- A sensation of food staying in the throat
Schedule a consultation to speak with a GI physician in Indianapolis, IN as soon as possible if you suffer from any number of the above symptoms routinely. It is important to talk to your physician if your swallowing problems are causing you to throw up or lose weight.
What are the treatments for swallowing trouble?
Treatment for swallowing difficulties starts by pinpointing the source of the problem. If the source turns out to be food allergies, the proper measures will be performed to diminish swelling, and we will advise that you steer clear of the item. In the case of esophagitis, we will work to identify the root cause, establishing whether it is caused by a viral or bacterial infection (infectious esophagitis), or GERD. If you have muscle spasms in the esophagus, we might advise taking medicine to relax the muscles or surgery. Let the GI physicians at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology work with you to recover your strength to swallow.
Get the relief you need
If dysphagia is affecting your life and you're looking for a team of skilled providers to help you find relief, reach out to the GI specialists at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology. Your doctor will properly determine the cause and find a solution that would work for your needs. Do not put off care, as swallowing trouble could point to a bigger concern that requires quick care. If you need treatment for difficulty swallowing in Indianapolis, IN, schedule a visit today to receive the attention you need.
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Everyone is very nice and professional. I would highly recommend.
Dr. CHENG was unavailable. I saw PA Madison Maloof. I was thoroughly impressed with Her knowledge, care and genuine interest in Me as a patient. She is excellent. She arranged for an endoscopy.
They were very polite.
Dr. Crane and his staff were very friendly. The intake nurse was so bubbly and full of life...she made me feel relaxed and welcomed. When dr. Crane came in..he actually sat down and held a conversation with me and asked me my thoughts and if I had questions....he was very through in answering all my questions and was very knowledgeable!! I feel confident in the care and service and I am thankful I chose Dr. Crane to provide my care!
Very nice and caring attitude. He gave me more information then I could want about my condition.
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