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Jonathan Hughes | Hemel Hempstead

Swallowing Problems Treatment

Swallowing problems can manifest in various ways and may indicate underlying conditions such as “no burp syndrome” (Retrograde cricopharyngeal dysfunction or R-CPD), pharyngeal pouch, or cricopharyngeal spasm. Do you have difficulty or pain while swallowing? Do you feel like food is getting stuck in your throat or chest? Are you regurgitating food, or coughing or choking during meals? Have you experienced weight loss, or you are suffering from recurrent respiratory infections? We can help.

Botox injections may be used as a treatment option for certain swallowing disorders, such as “no burp syndrome”. It temporarily paralyses the muscles responsible for abnormal contractions, providing relief from symptoms. Dilatation is a procedure where the narrow areas of the oesophagus are stretched using specially designed medical instruments. In cases of severe swallowing problems a surgical procedure may be necessary. This may involve using a laser to cut the muscles that are causing the obstruction to improve swallowing function.

When it comes to finding the best person to help with swallowing problems, Jonathan Hughes stands out as a leading expert in the field. His in-depth understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the throat and esophagus enables him to accurately diagnose these conditions and develop effective treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

If you think you might have swallowing problems, get in touch with your ENT specialist in London to book a consultation today!
020 3897 0667

Why do swallowing problems occur?

Swallowing problems are often caused by muscle weakness, nerve damage, structural abnormalities, or certain medical conditions. Pharyngeal pouch, also known as Zenker’s diverticulum, is a condition where a pouch forms in the wall of the throat, causing difficulty in swallowing. This can be caused by weakness in the muscles of the throat, or an abnormality in the swallowing process. Cricopharyngeal spasm or dysfunction occurs when the muscles at the upper end of the food pipe do not relax properly during swallowing, leading to difficulty in moving food from the throat to the stomach. “No burp syndrome” refers to an inability to release air from the upper digestive tract, which can cause discomfort and bloating.

What sort of investigation procedures should I expect?

When a small flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the larynx to examine your throat and larynx, it is called a laryngoscopy. It will allow Mr Jonathan Hughes to assess any abnormalities or structural issues that may be affecting your ability to swallow. When the tube is inserted into your oesophagus, it’s called an oesophagoscopy.

A video swallow is another method used to investigate swallowing problems. During this procedure, you will be given a special liquid containing barium to drink while a radiologist takes X-ray images of your swallowing process. This allows them to observe any abnormalities or difficulties in real-time, providing valuable information about the function of your throat and oesophagus.

Which treatment will my swallowing problems require?

For pharyngeal pouch, the pouch can be surgically removed, or repaired, to alleviate swallowing difficulties. For cricopharyngeal spasm, a treatment that relaxes the muscles is beneficial, such as Botox injections. If the esophagus or throat is constricted, dilatation will widen or stretch the narrow part. Other conditions, such as retrograde cricopharyngeus dysfunction, or “no burp” syndrome, may require lifestyle modifications such as avoiding carbonated beverages and certain foods that can contribute to gas build-up. When you visit Mr Jonathan Hughes for your initial consultation, you’ll discuss the best treatment options for you, with a view to creating a personalised treatment plan.

Are the treatments painful and how long does it take to recover?

The specific treatment approach for each condition may vary depending on the severity and underlying causes. In some cases, non-invasive methods such as swallowing exercises, dietary modifications, and lifestyle changes may be sufficient to manage the symptoms. However, in more severe cases, or when conservative measures are ineffective, invasive procedures such as dilatation may be recommended.

Recovery time can vary depending on the individual and the specific treatment undergone. For less invasive treatments such as swallowing exercises, recovery may be relatively quick, with noticeable improvements within a few weeks. In contrast, recovery from more invasive procedures such as dilatation or surgery may take longer.