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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.
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.
Specialized Tests: When More Information is Needed
In some cases, additional tests may be necessary. These might include pH monitoring to check for acid reflux, or a functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) to assess esophageal distensibility. Your doctor will determine if these tests are needed based on your symptoms and initial results.
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.
Most insurance plans cover these tests when medically necessary, but check your coverage.
Knowledge is Power
Understanding these diagnostic tools empowers patients to actively participate in their care and make informed decisions about their health.
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.
- Yadlapati R, Kahrilas PJ, Fox MR, et al. Esophageal motility disorders on high-resolution manometry: Chicago classification version 4.0©. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2021; 33:e14058.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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