Best Dysphagia Doctors in Kolkata

Dysphagia is a medical condition that causes difficulty in swallowing. This ailment arises due to a variety of reasons which range from neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease and stroke to structural abnormalities such as oesophageal cancer. Muscular disorders like achalasia and functional disorders like Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) also contribute to dysphagia. The effects of dysphagia can manifest in the mouth (oral dysphagia), throat (pharyngeal dysphagia), or oesophagus (oesophageal dysphagia).

Kolkata has observed several cases of dysphagia in its populace. However, the city is well-equipped with top-notch healthcare facilities, and Apollo Hospitals Kolkata are at the forefront. Apollo has a team of highly experienced doctors for dysphagia treatment and specialists dedicated to providing excellent care. Whether you are looking for the best dysphagia surgeons or seeking an invasive procedure, Apollo Hospitals Kolkata is here to cater to all of your health needs.

Types/Stages of Dysphagia

Dysphagia specialists note that this condition can present itself in various forms:

• Oral dysphagia (high dysphagia): This type of dysphagia is caused by problems in the mouth such as tongue weakness after a stroke.

• Pharyngeal dysphagia: Difficulty in swallowing due to problems in the throat, often because of neurological disorders affecting the nerves.

• Oesophageal dysphagia (low dysphagia): This type of dysphagia is due to issues in the oesophagus, often caused by a blockage or irritation.

Symptoms of Dysphagia

The presence of dysphagia can be determined through several symptoms:

• Frequent choking during meals

• Persistent coughing

• Unintentional drooling

• Persistent sensation of food getting stuck in the throat or chest

• Unexplained weight loss

• Recurrent pneumonia

Tests to Diagnose Dysphagia

Dysphagia specialists utilise comprehensive testing for accurate diagnosis:

• Barium swallow study (cineradiography): This test helps doctors treating dysphagia visualise the swallowing process.

• Upper endoscopy: This procedure allows doctors for dysphagia treatment to examine the pharynx and oesophagus.

• Manometry: This test measures pressure in the oesophagus.

• Impedance and pH testing: This test detects acid reflux, if present.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Dysphagia at Apollo Hospitals Kolkata

At Apollo Hospitals Kolkata, various treatment options are available based on the underlying cause of dysphagia:

• Medication: Certain medications can help manage symptoms of dysphagia.

• Swallowing therapy: This involves working with a speech and language therapist to learn new swallowing techniques.

• Diet modifications: Changing eating habits can often alleviate dysphagia symptoms.

• Feeding tubes: In severe cases, a feeding tube may be necessary.

• Surgical interventions: Procedures like dilation, Botulinum toxin injections, or tumour removal might be necessary for treating oesophageal dysphagia. The team of gastroenterologists and specialists for dysphagia disease at Apollo Hospitals Kolkata are highly experienced in delivering positive health outcomes.