What causes hardness in swallowing?
Oropharyngeal dysphagia is caused by disorders of the nerves and muscles in the throat. These disorders weaken the muscles, making it difficult for a person to swallow without choking or gagging. The causes of oropharyngeal dysphagia are conditions that primarily affect the nervous system such as: multiple sclerosis.
What illness causes difficulty swallowing?
Neurological conditions that can cause swallowing difficulties are: stroke (the most common cause of dysphagia); traumatic brain injury; cerebral palsy; Parkinson disease and other degenerative neurological disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease), multiple sclerosis.
What to take if throat is closing up?
You can gargle with a mixture of salt, baking soda, and warm water, or suck on a throat lozenge. Rest your voice until you feel better. Anaphylaxis is treated under close medical supervision and with a shot of epinephrine. Other medications like antihistamines and corticosteroids may be necessary as well.
What kind of doctor should I see for difficulty swallowing?
See your doctor if you’re having problems swallowing. Depending on the suspected cause, your doctor may refer you to an ear, nose and throat specialist, a doctor who specializes in treating digestive disorders (gastroenterologist) or a doctor who specializes in diseases of the nervous system (neurologist).
Why does it feel like I’ve got a hair stuck in my throat?
Often, globus pharyngeus is due to minor inflammation in the throat or at the back of the mouth. The throat muscles and mucous membranes can feel strained when the throat is dry, causing feelings that something is stuck in the throat. Medications and some medical conditions may cause dry throat.
What do you do if you can’t swallow your saliva?
Helpful tips include:
- Slow down and swallow when speaking.
- Sleep with your head propped up so that saliva can flow down the throat.
- Sleep on your side instead of your back.
- Raise the head of your bed by a few inches to keep stomach acid in your stomach.
- Drink alcohol in moderation.
- Eat smaller meals.
