Differential Diagnosis for Trouble Swallowing
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is often the most common cause of trouble swallowing, as the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus can cause inflammation and narrowing of the esophagus, leading to dysphagia.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Esophageal Stricture: A narrowing of the esophagus due to chronic inflammation or scarring, often caused by GERD or other conditions.
- Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus, which can be caused by GERD, infections, or other conditions.
- Achalasia: A motility disorder of the esophagus, where the muscles in the esophagus do not function properly, leading to difficulty swallowing.
- Esophageal Cancer: Although less common, esophageal cancer can cause trouble swallowing, especially in older adults or those with a history of smoking or alcohol use.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Esophageal Perforation: A life-threatening condition where the esophagus ruptures, often due to severe vomiting, trauma, or instrumentation.
- Eosinophilic Esophagitis: A condition characterized by an allergic reaction in the esophagus, which can cause severe dysphagia and food impaction.
- Pill Esophagitis: A condition where a pill or medication becomes stuck in the esophagus, causing inflammation and potentially leading to perforation.
- Foreign Body Obstruction: A condition where an object becomes lodged in the esophagus, which can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.
Rare Diagnoses
- Scleroderma: A systemic disease that can cause fibrosis and narrowing of the esophagus, leading to dysphagia.
- Chagas Disease: A parasitic infection that can cause damage to the esophagus and lead to dysphagia.
- Esophageal Web: A rare condition where a thin membrane forms in the esophagus, causing obstruction and dysphagia.
- Cricopharyngeal Dysfunction: A condition where the muscles in the throat do not function properly, leading to difficulty swallowing.