What is Dysphagia?
"Dysphagia" is a medical term that simply means difficulty swallowing — it is a symptom, not a diagnosis. Understanding the underlying cause of that symptom is what makes all the difference in getting the right treatment. Swallowing difficulties are more common than most people realize, and when left unaddressed, can significantly affect nutrition, quality of life, and in serious cases, lead to aspiration pneumonia or other complications.
Swallowing problems generally fall into two broad categories. Oropharyngeal dysphagia involves difficulty initiating a swallow or moving food and liquid from the mouth through the throat — often the result of neurological conditions, prior surgery, or radiation treatment to the head and neck. Patients typically experience coughing or choking (often with liquids), or the sensation of food catching in the throat. Esophageal dysphagia involves difficulty moving food through the esophagus and into the stomach, and more commonly presents as a sensation of food sticking in the chest, sometimes accompanied by regurgitation.
Common Symptoms of Swallowing Disorders
- Coughing, choking, or throat clearing during or after meals
- Food or liquid sticking in the throat or chest
- Difficulty swallowing solids, liquids, or both
- A wet or gurgly voice quality after eating or drinking
- Unexplained weight loss or avoidance of certain foods
- Recurrent pneumonia or respiratory infections
Diagnosis & Treatment
As a fellowship-trained laryngologist, Dr. Benjamin Rafii brings dedicated expertise and a thorough, unhurried approach to the evaluation of swallowing disorders. Evaluation begins with a careful clinical history and physical examination, and when indicated, flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) — a direct, real-time assessment of swallowing function performed comfortably in the office.
Because dysphagia can have many causes, treatment varies widely and often involves a team. Dr. Rafii works closely with swallowing therapists, gastroenterologists, and other specialists to ensure every patient receives the right care — whether that means swallowing therapy, an in-office or surgical procedure, or a thoughtful referral to the appropriate expert.
Related Conditions: LPR / Silent Reflux | Cricopharyngeal Dysfunction & Zenker's Diverticulum | RCPD / Cant-Burp Syndrome
Related Treatments: Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) | Esophageal Dilation | Voice Therapy & Care Team Coordination
Related Services: Swallowing Evaluation | Vocal Cord & Voice Surgery
If you or a loved one are experiencing difficulty swallowing, Dr. Rafii and his team are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at The Laryngology & Voice Center of Beverly Hills — same- and next-day appointments are available.