Difficulty Swallowing
Alternate Names : Dysphagia
What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?
When someone complains of difficult swallowing, the healthcare provider will want to know:
what the person means by difficulty swallowing. For example, a person may feel as though food is "sticking" in the throat or chest. Another individual may also have trouble when he or she starts to swallow. An individual may have pain with swallowing, but be able to swallow without difficulty.
how long the trouble has been occurring
whether there is any pain when swallowing
whether the trouble is constant or only happens sometimes
whether the trouble comes on with solid food, liquids or both
whether the trouble started suddenly or slowly
whether there has been any weight loss
what other medical conditions the person may have
what medications, drugs, and herbs the person may be taking
whether there is any family history of swallowing trouble
whether the person is having any other symptoms
Other questions may be asked as well.
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