When Swallowing Becomes Difficult: Lesser-Known Causes and What You Can Do

Swallowing is something you rarely think about until it becomes a problem. A dry throat or the occasional lump in the throat might not raise concern, but persistent trouble with swallowing — known medically as dysphagia — can signal something more serious. Many people immediately think of acid reflux or throat infections, but there are several lesser-known causes that deserve attention, including achalasia, esophageal spasms, and narrowing of the esophagus due to scarring or inflammation.

If you've found yourself struggling with this issue, you're not alone. Let's explore the less obvious reasons swallowing can become difficult, the symptoms to look out for, and the natural approaches that may offer relief.

What Is Dysphagia?

Dysphagia refers to difficulty in swallowing. It can occur at any age but is more common in older adults. You might feel like food is stuck in your throat or chest, or experience pain while swallowing. Some people may cough or choke while eating or drinking.

Dysphagia can result from a wide range of conditions — from neurological disorders to structural problems. While some causes are well recognised, others often go undiagnosed until symptoms become severe.

Common Yet Overlooked Causes of Swallowing Difficulties

1. Achalasia

Achalasia is a rare condition where the muscles in your oesophagus don’t work properly, and the lower oesophageal sphincter (the muscle ring where the oesophagus meets the stomach) fails to relax. This prevents food and liquids from passing smoothly into the stomach. Over time, it can lead to weight loss, regurgitation of undigested food, chest pain, and heartburn-like symptoms.

Although surgery is a common approach, many people ask: can you cure achalasia without surgery? Some non-surgical options and lifestyle changes may help manage symptoms effectively, especially in the early stages.

2. Esophageal Spasms

These are sudden, involuntary contractions of the muscles in the oesophagus. They can cause severe chest pain and a feeling that food is stuck. The cause isn't always clear, but it may be related to acid reflux, stress, or nerve damage.

Esophageal spasms may mimic cardiac chest pain, so it's important to rule out heart-related causes before exploring gastrointestinal origins.

3. GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)

GERD is a common condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the oesophagus. Chronic exposure to acid can inflame and scar the lining of the oesophagus, leading to narrowing (strictures) and difficulty swallowing.

4. Eosinophilic Esophagitis

This is an allergic condition that causes inflammation of the oesophagus due to an overreaction to certain foods or allergens. It can cause similar symptoms to GERD but requires a different approach to treatment, including diet modification.

5. Oesophageal Strictures and Rings

Long-term inflammation from acid reflux, infections, or even pill-induced injury can lead to narrowing or the formation of rings in the oesophagus, making it harder for food to pass through.

6. Neurological Conditions

Conditions like Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and stroke can interfere with the nerve signals responsible for coordinating the swallowing process. This can lead to both oral and pharyngeal dysphagia.

7. Thyroid Enlargement or Tumours

A significantly enlarged thyroid gland (goitre) or nearby tumours can press against the oesophagus and interfere with swallowing.

Recognising the Symptoms

Symptoms may range from mild discomfort to more serious indicators of an underlying issue. Pay attention if you notice:

• Persistent sensation of food sticking in your throat or chest

• Coughing or choking when eating

• Pain during swallowing

• Weight loss without trying

• Regurgitation of food or liquid

• Frequent heartburn or indigestion

• Hoarseness or sore throat

If these symptoms are recurring, don’t ignore them — early assessment is key.

Diagnosing the Root Cause

To determine the exact cause of swallowing difficulty, a healthcare provider might suggest tests such as:

• Endoscopy – to inspect the oesophagus and stomach

• Barium swallow – a type of X-ray after drinking a special liquid

• Manometry – to measure muscle contractions in the oesophagus

• Allergy testing – for eosinophilic esophagitis

• pH monitoring – to detect acid reflux

A clear diagnosis can help determine whether the issue stems from muscular dysfunction (as in achalasia), inflammation, or physical narrowing.

Natural Ways to Support Swallowing Health

While medical treatment remains essential for many underlying causes, some natural and lifestyle approaches can ease symptoms and support healing.

1. Adjusting Your Diet

Modifying what and how you eat is often the first step. For many people, softer or liquid foods are easier to manage. You might try:

• Cooked vegetables instead of raw

• Blended soups and smoothies

• Moist foods with added sauces or gravies

• Avoiding dry, hard, or sticky foods like nuts, toast, or peanut butter

Eat slowly, take small bites, and avoid lying down straight after eating.

2. Manage Acid Reflux Naturally

If GERD is contributing to your symptoms:

• Avoid trigger foods (spicy, fatty, or citrus-based items)

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Elevate your head during sleep

• Limit alcohol and caffeine

• Try herbal remedies like slippery elm, chamomile, or licorice root, which may help soothe the digestive tract lining

  
  

3. Herbal Support for Oesophageal Health

Some people look into herbal treatment options for achalasia or related disorders. While these don’t cure the condition, they may offer symptom relief:

• Butcher’s broom – believed to support smooth muscle tone

• Lemon balm – may calm digestive spasms

• Marshmallow root – soothes irritated mucous membranes

• Magnesium supplements – may help with muscle function

Always speak to a healthcare provider before starting herbal supplements, especially if you’re on medications or have other health conditions.

4. Mindful Eating and Posture

For functional swallowing difficulties, attention to posture and habits can make a noticeable difference:

• Sit upright during and after meals

• Avoid talking while chewing

• Don’t rush your meals

• Practice diaphragmatic breathing to reduce tension in the chest and throat muscles

  
  

5. Swallowing Therapy

Speech and language therapists can guide you through exercises that strengthen swallowing muscles and reduce the risk of aspiration (food going into the lungs). This is especially beneficial for people with neurological causes of dysphagia.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Although natural remedies and lifestyle adjustments can help, don’t delay medical consultation if you:

• Experience significant weight loss

• Have trouble swallowing liquids

• Notice blood in vomit or stools

• Have persistent pain in your chest or throat

• Are unable to keep food down

Early diagnosis of conditions like achalasia can make treatment more effective and reduce the risk of complications such as oesophageal dilation or aspiration pneumonia.

Final Thoughts

Swallowing difficulties may feel alarming, but recognising the early signs and understanding the possible causes — especially lesser-known ones like achalasia or esophageal spasms — is the first step toward improvement. Natural measures such as dietary adjustments, posture, and gentle herbal remedies may provide relief and support more formal treatments.

If you’re wondering can you cure achalasia without surgery, or exploring herbal treatment options for achalasia, it's worth looking at the broader picture. Working with a healthcare team, making informed lifestyle changes, and considering complementary approaches can help you manage your symptoms and protect your long-term health.

Related Article: Herbal Remedies for Rare Digestive Disorders You Should Know About