Re: Swallowing problems

Posted By Kristine on May 23, 1999 at 18:22:46
I have posted to this board before about PVC's and anxiety problems
I have had in the past, but now I am faced with a new problem.  About a year ago, I noticed that sometimes I felt as though I couldn't swallow correctly unless I had something to drink to wash it down with.  It went away for awhile, but recently I noticed its back.  I know that this isn't normal but I don't know whether my anxiety is making it into more than what it is.  I am a 26 year old mother of two.  I have had someone tell me it was caused by nerve spasms that control swallowing....????  What would cause this, can anyone help??  Thanks so much for your help.   Kristine

[CCF CARDIO MD DLB]

Posted By CCF CARDIO MD - DLB on May 24, 1999 at 20:32:40
Dear Kristine
It would be potentially worthwhile for you to see a gastroenterologist - a stomach doctor. These doctors also deal with swallowing disorders. Spasm of the esophagus - the food pipe - can occur; when it does, it is very painful. There are many other disorders of the food pipe that can cause difficulty swallowing, as well as pain, and a gastroenterologist should be able to sort through the possibilities.
I hope this has been useful. I wish you the best of luck. Feel free to write back.
Information provided here is for general purposes only. Specific questions should be addressed to your own doctor. If you would like to make an appointment at the Cleveland Clinic Heart Center, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE or inquire online by using the Heart Center website at www.ccf.org/heartcenter. The Heart Center website contains a directory of the cardiology staff that can be used to select the physician best suited to address your cardiac problem.











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