Expert Swallowing Care

by Jonathan Aviv, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Swallowing is the process of passing foods and liquids from our mouths into the stomach. We rarely think about swallowing – until it becomes a problem. Dysphagia is the term for difficulty swallowing. Dysphagia can encompass difficulties in the mouth, throat (pharynx), vocal cords (larynx) and/or esophagus.

The esophagus is the tube that connects the throat to the stomach.

When swallowing problems occur – it can be the result of neurological problems such as stroke, or paralyzed or poorly moving vocal cords, or diseases such as Parkinson’s, Lou Gehrig’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis and others. Inflammatory and infectious problems (eg. acid reflux disease, fungus infections, allergies ), anatomical problems (eg. scarring or stenosis, hernias or diverticulae), poor lubrication (eg. lack of saliva seen in a disease called Sjogren’s Syndrome) or even tumors or cancers in the mouth, throat, larynx or esophagus.

When experiencing dysphagia, it is imperative to have a comprehensive examination of the ears, nose, throat, head and neck by your otolaryngologist. Diagnostic studies in the office may be performed – including use of ultra thin flexible cameras as soft and thin as a cooked piece of spaghetti to examine the areas in question. For example, flexible laryngoscopy to examine the vocal cords and throat, transnasal esophagoscopy (TNE) to examine the esophagus, techniques called FEES (Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing) or FEESST (Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing with Sensory Testing) to assess swallowing function. In addition the impact of acid reflux on swallowing can be determined with testing of acid content in the throat called pH testing.

Our ENT swallowing specialists provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment for a wide range of swallowing conditions to help you eat and drink comfortably and confidently.

Swallowing Conditions We Treat

Reflux (GERD / LPRD)

Acid reflux can cause chronic throat irritation, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, or a sensation of food “sticking.”

Swallowing Disorders (Dysphagia)

Difficulty moving food or liquids from the mouth to the stomach. May involve the throat muscles (pharyngeal) or esophagus.

Odynophagia

Painful swallowing, often caused by infection, irritation, or inflammation.

Vocal Cord Paralysis

Can impair airway protection during swallowing, increasing choking or aspiration risks.

Laryngeal Inflammation

Swelling from infection, allergies, or irritants may temporarily disrupt swallowing.

Related Conditions

Laryngitis, TMJ dysfunction, and certain neurological disorders can contribute to swallowing problems.

Find Relief From Swallowing Problems

Difficulty swallowing—whether occasional or persistent—can affect your nutrition, safety, and overall comfort. If you’re experiencing discomfort, choking episodes, food “sticking,” or pain when swallowing, our ENT swallowing experts can help.

With convenient locations throughout New York, New Jersey, and Texas, we offer advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment plans to identify the cause of your symptoms and restore safer, more comfortable swallowing.

Our specialists diagnose and treat conditions such as dysphagia, odynophagia, reflux-related swallowing issues, vocal cord paralysis, inflammation, and structural abnormalities.

Take the first step toward relief and confidence. Schedule your swallowing evaluation today.

Compassionate Care & Support

Swallowing problems can lead to choking episodes, unintentional weight loss, discomfort during meals, and avoidance of certain foods. Our team provides supportive and effective treatment, often in coordination with swallowing therapists and speech pathologists.

Why Treat Swallowing Issues Early?

Untreated swallowing problems can worsen over time and may lead to dehydration, malnutrition, aspiration, pneumonia, or long-term discomfort. Conditions such as GERD, LPRD, vocal cord paralysis, or structural narrowing benefit greatly from prompt evaluation.

Prompt care helps you:

• Reduce symptoms and discomfort
• Prevent serious complications
• Improve daily function and quality of life
• Regain safe and comfortable swallowing

Find Relief From Swallowing Problems

Start your evaluation today and begin your personalized treatment plan with our swallowing specialists.

Swallowing FAQs

What is the difference between dysphagia and odynophagia?

Dysphagia is difficulty swallowing. Odynophagia is pain while swallowing.

Can untreated swallowing issues cause complications?

Yes. Untreated dysphagia may lead to choking, aspiration, or malnutrition.

What lifestyle changes help with swallowing problems?

Staying upright after meals, managing reflux, avoiding irritants, and practicing proper chewing and safe swallowing techniques.