possible cause of difficulty swallowing?

I have a simple question, but I really think I have a possible solution for at least some people with respect to the sensation of something stuck in the throat.  My question is this:  is it possible this sensation could be caused by an allergic reaction to something in the diet?  

Now I

[Kevin Pho, MD]

There can be many causes for a globus sensation (i.e. the feeling of something stuck in the throat).  

Uncommonly, allergies may lead to this.  More common reasons would be GERD, or an anatomical abnormality.

I would assume that the ENT considered tests such as a larygoscopy or an upper endoscopy by the GI to evaluate for more common causes.  

A sinus CT can also be considered to look for post-nasal drip due to sinusitis.

If the tests are negative, testing for food allergies can be considered.

I would discuss these options 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_

[Aub]

I had difficulty swallowing. This was going on and off for quite a number of years.  I had several upper GI endoscopies which showed some minor erosions.   I am not sure that a barium swallow would show this.  I think heartburn can be very subtle.
Anyway,  my last endoscopy in February showed a small (medium) hiatal hernia with some damage (Shotzky's rings).   This may be due to a lot of acid causing the lining to get thicker.   Anyway, last Friday I just had hiatal hernia surgery. I had some other tests, of course like the barium swallow.   Anyway,  last Friday, I had the surgery and today I went back to work for a half day.  The surgery is no big deal.  You just have to follow the special diet for awhile.   You can get out and walk, do your regular chores, etc.  They say they don't want you to lift more than 20 pounds for 6 weeks.  I am thankful I had it done.  I found a good gastroentrologist and one of the best bariatric surgeons in the Edmonds (Seattle) area.  I will go out and walk 2 miles today after work.