Swallowing Disorders

Difficulty swallowing is a widespread disorder that affects millions of Americans. Symptoms can be temporary, due to anxiety, or much more serious. When food or saliva enter the lungs, they are breathed in, which can lead to pneumonia. Our expert team of providers can help.

To schedule an appointment, call 216-778-4391.

Causes of Swallowing Disorders

• Strokes. Having a stroke is a major cause of most of the 300,000 to 600,000 new cases of dysphagia diagnosed each year.
• Other neurological conditions (e.g., Parkinson's Disease, Lou Gehrig's Disease)
• Head and neck trauma
• Throat cancer
• Neck arthritis
• Certain medications, such as tranquilizers
• Pills or foreign bodies being stuck in the food pipe
• Infections, such as sore throats

Newborns and small children who have a difficult time eating or are experiencing unexplained coughing should also be thoroughly evaluated for congenital or neurological causes, in addition to others.