Unraveling the Mystery: How Doctors Diagnose Dysphagia
Published: Nov 13, 2023
When it comes to difficulty swallowing, doctors have a range of tools to pinpoint the cause. Understanding these diagnostic tests can help patients feel more at ease during the evaluation process.
Contents
The Barium Swallow: X-ray Vision for Your Throat
A barium swallow, also called an esophagram, is often the first test used to evaluate dysphagia. During this test, you'll swallow a chalky liquid containing barium, which shows up on X-rays. As you swallow, a series of X-rays are taken, allowing doctors to see the outline of your throat and esophagus in action.
Upper Endoscopy: A Camera Down the Hatch
An upper endoscopy, or EGD, involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera down your throat. This allows doctors to directly visualize the lining of your esophagus, looking for any abnormalities like inflammation, strictures, or tumors. It's usually done under sedation for your comfort.
Esophageal Manometry: Measuring Muscle Power
This test measures the strength and coordination of your esophageal muscles. A thin tube with pressure sensors is passed through your nose into your esophagus. As you swallow small sips of water, the sensors measure how well your esophagus moves food downward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most patients find these tests uncomfortable but not painful.
Test duration varies, but most take between 15 minutes to an hour.
Yes, you'll usually need to fast for several hours before most of these tests.
Some results are immediate, but others may take a few days for full analysis.
Key Takeaways
Understanding these diagnostic tools empowers patients to actively participate in their care and make informed decisions about their health.
Wondering which tests might be right for you? Discuss your symptoms and concerns with Doctronic to develop a personalized diagnostic plan.Related Articles
References
ASGE Standards of Practice Committee, Pasha SF, Acosta RD, et al. The role of endoscopy in the evaluation and management of dysphagia. Gastrointest Endosc 2014; 79:191.
Gyawali CP, Carlson DA, Chen JW, et al. ACG Clinical Guidelines: Clinical Use of Esophageal Physiologic Testing. Am J Gastroenterol 2020; 115:1412.
Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.