Swallowing Trouble

Swallowing trouble (Dysphagia) care at Peak ENT

If eating feels like a chore or if food frequently “gets stuck,” causes pain, or triggers coughing, your symptoms may be a sign of dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing. At Peak ENT, we specialize in diagnosing and treating swallowing disorders with personalized, patient-first care.

Whether your trouble swallowing is occasional or constant, we’re here to find the cause and help you eat, drink, and speak with greater comfort and confidence.

What is dysphagia?

Dysphagia is the medical term for difficulty swallowing. It can occur in the mouth, throat (pharynx), or esophagus and may be caused by a wide range of underlying issues—from nerve or muscle dysfunction to inflammation, injury, or obstruction. Swallowing trouble can affect people of any age, but it’s especially common among older adults or individuals recovering from illness, surgery, or neurological conditions.

Symptoms of swallowing trouble

You may be experiencing dysphagia if you notice:

Pain or discomfort while swallowing (odynophagia)
A sensation of food being “stuck” in your throat or chest
Frequent coughing or choking while eating or drinking
Drooling or inability to control saliva
Hoarseness or gurgling voice during meals
Heartburn, regurgitation, or unexplained weight loss
Avoidance of certain foods due to fear of choking

If these symptoms are recurring or worsening, it’s time to see a specialist.

Diagnosing swallowing disorders

At Peak ENT, we use advanced tools to accurately diagnose the cause and location of your swallowing difficulty, including:

Laryngoscopy – A flexible camera to examine your throat and vocal cords
Esophagoscopy – Evaluation of the esophagus for narrowing or damage
Videofluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS) – A moving X-ray test that tracks your swallow in real time
Manometry or pH testing – Measures esophageal pressure and reflux levels

These tests help us create a treatment plan that’s precise, effective, and customized to your needs.

Treatment options for dysphagia

Your treatment will depend on the cause and severity of your condition. We offer a full range of medical and surgical options to help restore safe, effective swallowing.

Non-surgical treatment:

Swallowing therapy and exercises (often in partnership with speech-language pathologists)
Dietary changes and texture modifications
Anti-reflux medications or acid blockers
Behavioral and positioning techniques to support safer eating

Our priority is not only to treat your cancer, but to support your recovery, comfort, and confidence along the way.

Minimally invasive procedures:

Esophageal dilation to widen narrowed passages
In-office laryngoscopy for diagnosis and targeted treatment
Botox injections for muscle spasms in select cases

Surgical options (if needed):

Removal of tumors or structural obstructions
Correction of anatomical abnormalities in the throat or esophagus
Tracheal or airway surgery if swallowing is affected by obstruction

Ongoing care and monitoring

Your journey doesn’t end with treatment. We provide long-term follow-up care, including:

Regular imaging and physical exams
Voice and swallowing evaluations
Nutritional counseling and referrals
Support for dry mouth, fatigue, and other post-treatment effects
Emotional and psychological support resources

We walk with you through recovery, survivorship, and beyond—because you deserve care that lasts longer than the diagnosis.

Why choose Peak ENT?

Board-certified ENT specialists experienced in complex swallowing disorders
Comprehensive testing done in-office for faster results
Collaborative care with speech-language and GI specialists when needed
Customized treatment plans for adults and children
Same-day and next-day appointments available

You don’t have to struggle with every bite.

If swallowing causes discomfort, fear, or frustration, we’re here to help. At Peak ENT, we’ll uncover the root cause of your symptoms and guide you toward solutions that bring safety, comfort, and peace of mind back to every meal.