Can't Swallow Food

Dear Ask The Doctor: I am having trouble swallowing solid foods. I can barely eat a handfull of mashpotatoes. I went to the doctor 3 weeks ago and I was given an IV and a cat scan to make sure there was no blockage and throat and the doctor gave me antibiotics for strep throat. I have bought Maalox because I thought I have acid reflux and that is not working. I don't have heartburn or an upset stomach, but my food comes back into my mouth and I am constantly burping whenever I drink anything. Why can't I swallow?

Dear Sherri: The difficulty swallowing and regurgitation of food that you are experiencing can be caused by many conditions. I understand that you don’t have heartburn but I am not sure if you experience any other type of pain during these episodes.

It is necessary to obtain a more complete history and perform some auxiliary tests such as x-ray with Barium contrast done by your doctor to rule out diseases of the Esophagus such as Achalasia, Diffuse Esophageal Spasm, Gastro esophageal Reflux Disease, etc.

My advice to you is to get an appointment with a specialist in Gastroenterology to find the exact cause and in the meantime avoid coffee, chocolate, peppermint, alcohol, smoking and fatty foods.