Followup to my previous question

You answered a question for me a week ago.. I am a 28, almost 29 year old male with sudden onset of dysphagia for solids only. It feels like food gets stuck in my throat. The level that it feels like it is sticking at is about the Adam's apple level. I have a cough reflex sometimes although I do not cough anything back up..it may just feel like it is getting stuck..

As indicated previously, I have had a
1. Barium Swallow-came back fine. Swallowed three consistencies with no problems
2. I had a CAT Scan of my throat done at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center last Friday. Results came today. Nothing came up other than mild sinus disease.
3. An ENT examined my throat with a scope, at least to the level of my larynx. e did not some inflammation, but it was so very minor that he and the other doctor in the room were debating whether or not it was reflux. They put me on a PPI as a precaution. My swallow was fine, at least for soft stuff, on the scope. They did not do solids.
4. I had an X-Ray of the throat when I first went to the ER-no masses showing in my neck

I am scheduled for an endoscopy and a modified barium swallow as well. This is just very puzzling.
Do you have any inkling as to what may be going on or what area I should check next? I would really like to get this resolved. The fact that this is still a mystery syndrome is getting to me

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I agree with the workup thus far.  The upper endoscopy and modified bariums swallow will comprehensively look and evaluate your swallowing mechanism.  If there is something wrong, those tests would find it.  I cannot think of any other tests if the results continue to be non-revealing.  

I agree with the PPI treatment for possible GERD.  If GERD continues to be a possibility with continuing symptoms, a 24-hr pH study can be done to quantify the severity of the GERD, along with esophageal motility studies.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_