Best Dysphagia Doctors in Lucknow

Dysphagia is a medical condition that is characterised by difficulty in swallowing. Ranging from neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease and stroke to structural abnormalities such as oesophageal cancer and diverticula, various factors contribute to its occurrence. Dysphagia can be mainly classified into three types—oral, pharyngeal, and oesophageal dysphagia—depending on the location of the swallowing impairment. Symptoms typically include choking, coughing, drooling, and recurrent pneumonia.

The city of Lucknow, known for its rich culture and culinary delights, has also been grappling with an increase in the incidence of conditions like dysphagia. This is not unique to Lucknow but reflects the overall growing prevalence of this condition in India. Apollo Hospitals Lucknow is rising to this challenge by providing some of the best doctors for dysphagia treatment who are committed to offering patients comprehensive care and effective treatment options.

Types/Stages of Dysphagia

The categorisation of this condition done by dysphagia specialists is essentially based on the location of the swallowing impairment:

• Oral Dysphagia: This involves difficulty in the mouth due to reasons like tongue weakness following a stroke.

• Pharyngeal Dysphagia: This entails difficulty in the throat due to neurological problems affecting the nerves.

• Oesophageal Dysphagia: This relates to difficulty within the oesophagus often because of a blockage or irritation.

Symptoms of Dysphagia

The symptoms of dysphagia are broad and can vary from person to person. Key symptoms include:

• Choking or coughing while eating or drinking

• Drooling or having difficulty controlling saliva

• The sensation of food getting stuck in the throat, chest, or behind the breastbone

• Unexplained weight loss

• Recurrent pneumonia due to aspiration

Tests to Diagnose Dysphagia

Several tests assist gastroenterologists, doctors, and specialists for dysphagia treatment as well as their diagnostics. These include:

• Barium Swallow Study: This is a series of X-rays used for visualising the swallowing process.

• Upper Endoscopy: This test allows doctors to examine the pharynx and oesophagus.

• Manometry: This test measures the pressure within the oesophagus.

• Impedance and pH testing: These tests help in detecting acid reflux.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Dysphagia at Apollo Hospitals Lucknow

At Apollo Hospitals Lucknow, a wide range of treatment options are available depending on the underlying cause observed by doctors treating dysphagia:

• Medication and Swallowing Therapy: These are effective treatments for oral dysphagia.

• Diet Modifications: Changes in diet can significantly alleviate symptoms in certain cases.

• Feeding tubes: In severe cases, feeding tubes may be used to bypass swallowing difficulties.

• Surgical Interventions: For oesophageal dysphagia, surgical options such as dilation, Botulinum toxin injections or tumour removal might be necessary. The best dysphagia surgeons at Apollo Hospitals Lucknow prioritise holistic patient-centric care to deliver positive health outcomes.