Best Dysphagia Doctors in Mumbai

Dysphagia is a medical condition characterised by difficulty in swallowing. It originates from various triggers such as neurological conditions like Parkinson's, stroke, and multiple sclerosis, structural abnormalities, including oesophageal cancer or stricture, muscular disorders such as achalasia, etc. Predisposition to dysphagia can arise from various sources, with symptoms often manifesting as choking, coughing, drooling, and unexplained weight loss.

The city of Mumbai is not immune to cases of dysphagia. The city's vast urban expanse is home to a diverse mix of people, among whom instances of dysphagia have been reported significantly. However, the presence of world-class medical facilities like Apollo Hospitals ensures that Mumbai residents receive access to some of the best doctors for dysphagia treatment and dysphagia specialists in the country.

Types/Stages of Dysphagia

Understanding the types of dysphagia is crucial in seeking appropriate medical help. These are:

• Oral Dysphagia: Characterised by difficulty swallowing due to issues originating in the mouth, such as tongue weakness post-stroke.

• Pharyngeal Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing due to problems in the throat, often neurological.

• Oesophageal Dysphagia: This type concerns swallowing difficulties that stem from issues in the oesophagus, usually caused by blockages or irritation.

Symptoms of Dysphagia

Noticing early signs can hasten treatment and recovery from dysphagia. The most common symptoms noted by gastroenterologist specialising in dysphagia diseases include:

• Choking or coughing during meals

• Drooling

• The sensation of food being stuck in the throat or chest

• Unexplained weight loss

• Recurrent bouts of pneumonia

Tests to Diagnose Dysphagia

Diagnosing dysphagia involves a comprehensive approach. The most common tests used by doctors for dysphagia treatment include:

• Barium Swallow Study: This offers a visual representation of the swallowing process.

• Upper Endoscopy: This test examines the pharynx and oesophagus for abnormalities.

• Manometry: It measures pressure in the oesophagus.

• Impedance and pH Testing: This helps detect acid reflux levels.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Dysphagia at Apollo Hospitals Mumbai

At Apollo Hospitals Mumbai, diverse treatment options are available for dysphagia, making it a destination with some of the best surgeons for dysphagia complications. The chosen course of treatment is contingent on the specific type of dysphagia the patient has and may include:

• Medication and Swallowing Therapy: This is usually prescribed for oropharyngeal dysphagia.

• Dietary Modifications: Adjusting what and how patients eat can often help manage dysphagia symptoms.

• Feeding Tubes: These are sometimes used when swallowing becomes excessively difficult.

• Surgical Interventions: For oesophageal dysphagia cases, surgical options like dilation, Botulinum toxin injections, or tumour removal might be necessary.

With an in-depth understanding of dysphagia, its types, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, one can better navigate their journey to recovery. The doctors who treat dysphagia at Apollo Hospitals Mumbai stand as beacons of hope in providing excellence in healthcare delivery.