Symptoms

Signs and symptoms associated with dysphagia can include:

• Pain while swallowing
• Inability to swallow
• A sensation of food getting stuck in the throat or chest or behind the breastbone (sternum)
• Drooling
• Hoarseness
• Food coming back up (regurgitation)
• Frequent heartburn
• Food or stomach acid backing up into the throat
• Weight loss
• Coughing or gagging when swallowing

When to see a doctor

See your health care provider if you regularly have difficulty swallowing or if weight loss, regurgitation or vomiting accompanies your dysphagia.

If an obstruction interferes with breathing, call for emergency help immediately. If you're unable to swallow because you feel that food is stuck in your throat or chest, go to the nearest emergency department.