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- Serving Denton · Lewisville · Coppell
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Difficulty Swallowing Treatment in Denton, TX
If food feels stuck or swallowing is painful, Dr. Amjad Awan can find the cause and often treat it during an upper endoscopy.
Understanding Dysphagia
When Food or Liquid Doesn't Go Down Easily
Difficulty swallowing, called dysphagia, is a feeling that food or liquid is sticking in your throat or chest. It may come and go or get worse over time.
Dysphagia is never something to ignore. It can be caused by narrowing, inflammation or muscle problems in the esophagus, and many causes are very treatable.
- Upper endoscopy to look for narrowing or inflammation
- Esophageal dilation to relieve strictures
- Treatment for reflux and eosinophilic esophagitis
- Referral for motility testing when needed
What Causes Difficulty Swallowing?
Dr. Awan looks for the specific cause so treatment can be targeted.
Esophageal Stricture
Narrowing from long-term acid reflux or scarring.
Eosinophilic Esophagitis
An allergic inflammation of the esophagus.
Esophageal Rings or Webs
Thin tissue bands that catch food.
GERD
Acid irritation causing inflammation and swelling.
Motility Disorders
Such as achalasia, where the esophagus does not move food properly.
Tumors
Less common, but important to rule out.
How We Evaluate Swallowing Problems
Evaluation is quick, and treatment can often begin the same day.
- ConsultationDr. Awan reviews whether solids, liquids or both are difficult and how symptoms have changed.
- Upper EndoscopyAn EGD examines the esophagus, with biopsies if needed.
- DilationA narrowed area can often be gently stretched during the same procedure.
- Ongoing CareMedications, diet changes or further testing prevent symptoms from returning.
When to Seek Care for Dysphagia
See a gastroenterologist if swallowing problems happen more than once, are getting worse, or come with weight loss, heartburn or vomiting.
Seek Emergency Care
If food is completely stuck and you cannot swallow your saliva, or you have trouble breathing, go to the emergency room right away.
Tips While You Wait for Your Visit
Eat slowly, take small bites, chew thoroughly and drink fluids with meals. Avoid foods that tend to stick, such as dry meats and bread.
Related Services
Learn about upper endoscopy (EGD) and GERD treatment.
Difficulty Swallowing FAQs
Is difficulty swallowing serious?
It can be. While many causes are easily treated, dysphagia should always be evaluated to rule out narrowing or tumors.
What is esophageal dilation?
It is a procedure performed during endoscopy that gently stretches a narrowed area of the esophagus to make swallowing easier.
Can reflux cause swallowing problems?
Yes. Long-term acid reflux can cause inflammation and scarring that narrow the esophagus.
What is eosinophilic esophagitis?
It is an allergic inflammation of the esophagus that often causes food to get stuck. It is diagnosed with biopsies during endoscopy.
Talk to Our Team
- Call (940) 243-0912
- Mon – Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- 6 locations in Denton & Coppell
Request an Appointment
Get Help for Swallowing Problems
Find the cause of difficulty swallowing with an experienced Denton gastroenterologist.