Dysphagia is a group of conditions characterized by difficulty swallowing. This might occur when passing food or liquid from your mouth to your stomach. Depending on the cause, the conditions can range from mild discomfort to a serious, possibly life-threatening, issue. Dysphagia conditions can be brought on by various factors like neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's disease, muscle disorders, cancers of the head and neck, or damage to the esophagus. The conditions that fall within dysphagia often present with symptoms like discomfort while swallowing, feeling of food stuck in the chest or throat, coughing or choking when eating, or weight loss due to eating difficulties. Progression of these conditions can lead to complications like aspiration pneumonia, due to inhaling food or drink into the lungs, or malnutrition from not getting enough nutrients.
Patient Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not intended for self-diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health.
If you see an ICD diagnosis code (e.g., on a medical report), be aware that doctors may also include additional indicators to express diagnostic certainty. Only a healthcare professional can interpret these codes accurately in the context of your individual case.
For a complete understanding of your condition and what the diagnosis means for you, please speak directly with your doctor.