Can acid reflux cause difficulty swallowing?

Yes, long-standing acid reflux can inflame the oesophagus or cause it to narrow. Both of these problems can make swallowing difficult.

When is difficulty swallowing an emergency?

Difficulty swallowing is an emergency when it comes on suddenly, or when someone is drooling and cannot swallow their own saliva. These signs suggest the airway is at risk, so call 999.

What tests are used for difficulty swallowing?

An endoscopy is the main test used to investigate dysphagia. A barium swallow is sometimes used as well.

Difficulty swallowing: When to See a GP

Quick answer

What could difficulty swallowing mean?

Dysphagia is difficulty moving food or liquid from the mouth to the stomach, and food may feel stuck in the chest. Persistent or progressive swallowing problems always need medical assessment. Call 999 if someone suddenly cannot swallow, is choking or is drooling, as this can put the airway at risk.

What dysphagia is

Swallowing is a complex process that relies on many muscles and nerves working together in a coordinated way. Swallowing problems that get progressively worse need to be investigated with an endoscopy.

Causes of difficulty swallowing

Common causes of dysphagia include acid reflux, a stricture (narrowing of the oesophagus), stroke and cancer. Neurological diseases can also affect swallowing.

Eating safely with swallowing problems

Sit upright when eating and take small bites, chewing each mouthful well. If you are referred, a speech and language therapist (SLT) can assess your swallowing and suggest ways to make eating safer.

When difficulty swallowing is urgent

Call 999 if a swallowing problem suddenly puts the airway at risk — for example, if someone is choking or cannot swallow their own saliva. Swallowing difficulty that gets progressively worse is investigated through an urgent referral pathway.

Common questions about difficulty swallowing

What is dysphagia?: Dysphagia is the medical term for difficulty moving food or liquid from the mouth to the stomach. Food can feel as though it is stuck in the chest.
Can acid reflux cause difficulty swallowing?: Yes, long-standing acid reflux can inflame the oesophagus or cause it to narrow. Both of these problems can make swallowing difficult.
When is difficulty swallowing an emergency?: Difficulty swallowing is an emergency when it comes on suddenly, or when someone is drooling and cannot swallow their own saliva. These signs suggest the airway is at risk, so call 999.
What tests are used for difficulty swallowing?: An endoscopy is the main test used to investigate dysphagia. A barium swallow is sometimes used as well.

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