Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist and the founder of GastroDoxs. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Dysphagia is a problem in swallowing. You may have the feeling that there is something stuck in your throat or that is or hick in your chest when you eat or you may develop undergoing cough or choking when eating or you may also experience pain. It is mild to extreme obstruction and has been designated with the ICD-10 code R13.x to be diagnosed and tracked.
He starts by talking about your swallowing problems, medical history, and the associated symptoms to be aware of the cause.
This will be followed by a request to drink a contrast solution as the X-ray images are then used to monitor the motion of the contrast solution in your esophagus which is normally used to identify obstruction or Problems with Motility.
A small tube called an endoscope is then inserted into your mouth in order to inspect the walls of your esophagus and stomach. In case of inflammation or any other problems, a biopsy can be performed.
The test is used to evaluate esophagus muscle contractions coordination and pressure by measuring it which is essential in detecting a motility disorder.
A probe testing shows the level of acid in your esophagus in 24 hours to find out whether GERD is the cause of your swallowing difficulty.
Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 9K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Dysphagia refers to the problem with swallowing. It can also either impact either liquids or solids or vice versa, as well as lead to coughing or choking over food.
Usual causes are neurological (stroke, Parkinson), GERD, esophageal strictures, head and neck (cancer) and muscle disorders.
Diagnosis is commonly either through barium swallow X-ray, upper endoscopy (EGD) or through videofluoroscopic swallow study in the presence of a speech pathologist.
The treatment is dependent on the cause. Successful treatments that can be applied include swallowing therapy, esophageal strictures, medication that reduces acid and surgery where necessary.
Yes. Speech-language pathologist can prescribe thickened liquids or pureed food in order to make the act of swallowing foods and beverages safe and easier.
Request assessment in case of weight loss, chronic chest infection, choking or issues with food getting stuck in your throat including two weeks.
Dysphagia may cause malnutrition, dehydration and aspiration pneumonia without treatment. The risks that are eliminated always at an early stage.
Recovery varies widely. Surgical or endoscopic remedies can solve the symptoms faster though swallowing therapy can consummate the task within several weeks.
