Dysphagia, difficulty swallowing, can affect people of all ages and may involve trouble moving food, liquid or saliva from the mouth to the stomach. While occasional swallowing problems (such as eating too quickly) are common, persistent or painful symptoms may signal an underlying health issue that requires evaluation.

In children, swallowing issues can impact nutrition, growth and even breathing or lung health. In adults, dysphagia may cause discomfort, coughing or choking during meals and affect quality of life.

Diagnosis

Your health care provider will perform a physical exam and may recommend one or more of the following tests based on symptoms:

• Flexible laryngoscopy: A thin camera is used to examine the nose, throat and vocal cords for signs of swelling, obstruction or other abnormalities.

• Modified barium swallow study (MBS/VFSS/VOSS): This X-ray-based test uses a contrast dye to observe how different food and liquid textures move through the mouth and throat as well as look for any of that food or liquid getting into the airway.

• Endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES): A small camera passed through the nose allows real-time visualization of swallowing and checks for aspiration (when food or liquid enters the airway).

• Esophageal imaging or endoscopy: If symptoms suggest a lower obstruction, specialized imaging or camera-based exams may be used to evaluate the esophagus.

These tools help pinpoint the source of dysphagia and guide treatment.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Schedule an evaluation if you or your child:

• Frequently coughs or chokes while eating or drinking

• Experiences pain or fear related to swallowing

• Loses weight or shows signs of poor growth due to picky or poor eating

• Has recurring respiratory infections from aspiration