Swallowing Disorders and Reflux Disease
In addition to cancer, swallowing disorders may also be caused by stroke, scar tissue around the circumference of the esophagus, achalasia (a tight sphincter where the stomach meets the esophagus), benign tumors, birth defects, gastrointestinal disorders and head and neck injuries. Elderly people who have suffered from a stroke are the most common swallowing disorder patients. Swallowing disorders occur when food won't travel into the stomach or goes instead into the lungs.
Symptoms that may be associated with a swallowing disorder include:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Pain with swallowing
- Food sticking in the throat
- Chest pain
- Chronic cough
- Repeated episodes of heartburn
DiagnosisA swallowing disorder is typically diagnosed through x-ray and endoscopy, which involves looking at the esophagus with a lighted, flexible scope. In some cases, manometry (which uses a catheter to measure the muscle function of the esophagus) also may be used. TreatmentPatients seeking treatment for swallowing disorders at Creighton University Medical Center will be seen not only by one of three qualified surgeons who specialize in swallowing disorders, but may also benefit from consultations with a gastroenterologist, pulmonologist, ear, nose and throat specialist and speech therapist, when appropriate. Learn More:
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For Patients
For more information on the
Esophageal Center at Creighton
University Medical Center
Office: 402.280.4161
For Physicians
To refer a patient or seek a consultation, call
877.775.0011
Meet the
Specialists
Summeet Mittal, MD
Director, Esophageal Center;
Assistant Professor of Surgery
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Tommy H. Lee, MD
Esophageal Center;
Assistant Professor of Surgery
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