Difficulty swallowing is referred to as dysphagia. Dysphagia can be caused by neurological disorders, tumors in the throat, diverticuli (outpouchings in the esophagus where food gets trapped) and acid reflux. Of these, acid reflux is the most common cause. If this symptom is getting worse or does not go away, it is important to have it evaluated by a physician. Barium swallow, where the esophagus is visualized by drinking a liquid that shows up on an x-ray is one common way of evaluating swallowing. Endoscopy, where a scope is passed down the throat is another common test.

Hugh E. Hetherington