Dysphagia Resulting from Esophageal Problems

Common symptoms, diagnostic techniques, and management methods for patients who have dysphagia of esophageal origin are reviewed. Esophageal problems are usually present premorbidly, but may manifest themselves after a stroke occurs. Esophageal abnormalities may mimic or exacerbate oropharyngeal symptoms of dysphagia. Therefore, the anatomy, physiology, and diagnostic tools to examine the esophagus must be appreciated in order to recognize symptoms and choose appropriate treatment strategies for esophageal disorders. Despite the high mortality and morbidity of some esophageal diseases, proper diagnosis and treatment may al low the stroke survivor to maintain adequate oral caloric intake without discomfort or nonoral feeding methods.