WHAT IS DYSPHAGIA?
Learn more about the causes and symptoms of persistent swallowing problems, also known as dysphagia.
You just clicked a link to go to another website. If you continue, you may go to a site run by someone else.
We do not review or control the content on non-Medtronic sites, and we are not responsible for any business dealings or transactions you have there. Your use of the other site is subject to the terms of use and privacy statement on that site.
It is possible that some of the products on the other site are not approved in your region or country.
Your browser is out of date
With an updated browser, you will have a better Medtronic website experience. Update my browser now.
The content of this website is exclusively reserved for Healthcare Professionals in countries with applicable health authority product registrations.
Click “OK” to confirm you are a Healthcare Professional.
Learn more about the causes and symptoms of persistent swallowing problems, also known as dysphagia.
Dysphagia is a medical term for difficulty swallowing — meaning it takes more time and effort to initiate and complete a swallow. This condition may occur at any age, but it is most common with elderly populations. Difficulty swallowing sometimes occurs after eating too quickly or not chewing food thoroughly. However, persistent swallowing problems may suggest a more serious condition.
There are a range of conditions, factors, and diseases that contribute to a swallowing disorder. One of the most common causes is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).1
The primary symptom of dysphagia is the sensation of being unable to swallow or that food is getting stuck in the throat. Additional signs and symptoms associated with dysphagia include:2
Dysphagia can make it difficult to stay adequately nourished or hydrated and may also signal a more serious underlying condition, such as GERD. Other risks associated with dysphagia include increased risk for lung infections, aspiration difficulties, and pneumonia.
Dysphagia is estimated to affect as many as 15 million Americans, and most often occurs in people who are more than 40 years of age.2 While dysphagia can be attributed to a variety of causes, one of the most common is chronic acid reflux caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).1 GERD is a common digestive disease characterized by chronic acid reflux, which occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus.3
Information and resources on this site should not be used as a substitute for medical advice from your doctor. Always discuss diagnosis and treatment information including risks with your doctor. Keep in mind that all treatment and outcome results are specific to the individual patient. Results may vary.
Bollschweiler E, Knoppe K, Wolfgarten E, Hölscher AH. Prevalence of dysphagia in patients with gastroesophageal reflux in Germany. Dysphagia. 2008;23(2):172-176. doi:10.1007/s00455-007-9120-5
Cho S, Choung R, Talley N, et al. Prevalence and risk factors for dysphagia: a USA community study. Neurogastroenterology And Motility: The Official Journal Of The European Gastrointestinal Motility Society [serial online]. February 2015;27(2):212-219
Vaezi M, Zehrai A, Yuksel E, Testing for refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease, ASGE Leading Edge, 2012 Vol 2, No 2, 1-13, American Society Gastroenterology Endoscopy, Page 1