Head & Neck Oncology

Difficulty In Swallowing Service

Dr. Debadeep Bagchi offers advanced diagnostic and therapeutic services for dysphagia, with a special focus on complex cases involving head and neck cancer, neurological conditions, and post-surgical complications.

  • Causes of Difficulty in Swallowing (Dysphagia)

    Dysphagia can occur at any stage of the swallowing process and may be caused by a wide range of conditions. The causes are typically divided into oropharyngeal (high) and esophageal (low) origins.

  • Neurological Causes (Oropharyngeal Dysphagia):

    •   Stroke – the most common neurological cause of sudden dysphagia
    •   Parkinson’s Disease
    •   Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
    •   Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS / Motor Neuron Disease)
    •   Myasthenia Gravis
    •   Brain tumors or trauma
    •   Cerebral palsy (in children)

  • Structural or Mechanical Causes:

    These include anatomical abnormalities or obstructions: •   Tumors of the throat, larynx, or esophagus
    •   Thyroid enlargement (goiter) compressing the esophagus or trachea
    •   Pharyngeal pouch (Zenker’s diverticulum)
    •   Esophageal webs or strictures
    •   Tonsillar hypertrophy or abscess
    •  Foreign body impaction

Frequently Asked Questions

•   Pain while swallowing (odynophagia)
•   Feeling of food sticking in the throat or chest
•   Coughing or choking while eating or drinking
•   Hoarseness or voice changes
•   Weight loss or dehydration
•   Recurrent pneumonia due to aspiration

•   ENT and neurological disorders (stroke, Parkinson’s disease)
•   Head and neck cancers or tumors
•   Throat infections or inflammation
•   Esophageal disorders (GERD, strictures)
•   Post-surgical or radiation-related complications
Dr. Bagchi conducts a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause.

Yes, in some cases, especially if accompanied by symptoms like unexplained weight loss, hoarseness, or a lump in the neck, dysphagia can be a sign of throat, esophageal, or head and neck cancer. Early detection is crucial—Dr. Bagchi specializes in evaluating and treating such conditions promptly.

During your visit, Dr. Bagchi will: •   Take a detailed history of your symptoms
•   Perform an ENT and head & neck examination
•   Possibly conduct an endoscopic evaluation of your throat and vocal cords
•   Recommend further tests or a tailored treatment plan
You’ll receive personalized care designed to improve both your symptoms and quality of life.

You can schedule a consultation through our website’s appointment page, or contact the clinic directly via phone or email. Early evaluation can help prevent complications and improve outcomes.

Book Your Consultation with Dr. Debadeep Bagchi

Taking the first step toward better ear, nose, and throat health is easy! Whether you need a routine ENT check-up, evaluation for sinus or hearing issues, or a consultation for head and neck concerns, we’re here to help.

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State Cancer Institute, Gmch top hill road, INDRAPUR, Guwahati, Assam, India, 781034 Guwahati

Mon- Sat : 9.00 Am- 5.00 Pm