Swallowing Difficulty

karenjane · 03-23-2010, 11:20 AM

My father is having severe problems with swallowing. This began two weeks ago. He has been seen by a GI physician. He received an endiscopy & some stretching in his esophogus. This procedure provided no help. He then received a barium swallow test that shows he is swallowing (makes no sense to me because is is unable to swallow without choking). This test also showed that he is aspirating on liquids. The GI physicians are recommending a feeding tube for my dad. He has already lost 15 pounds in only 14 days. My dad has refused the tube. We are able to get a couple of boost shakes in him each day. He takes small sips & has multiple episodes of choking... The GI physican has recommended that dad see a neurologist for further testing, but in his opinion, he doesn't believe my dad has suffered a stroke. If anyone has had similar experience and has any advice to offer, it would be so very much appreciated. We are frightened & don't know what to do to help him... Thank you so very much...

proxyii · 03-23-2010, 11:33 AM

Obviously I don't know your father. I had a similar difficulty after my ACDF surgery, and the docs couldn't find anything wrong. Finally after a scary afternoon of feeling like I was going to stop breathing and and ambulance trip later they said I was having a panic attack. Gave me some meds for it and the throat closing sensation & swallowing greatly improved.

Long story short, you should investigate the possibility that your father is having anxiety/panic attacks.

Kitty · 03-23-2010, 11:34 AM

Hi and welcome to NeuroTalk! I found this info on the Mayo Clinic website.....it may be of some help to you: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dif...SECTION=causes

Seems to me they'd try and find the cause of the problem instead of suggesting a feeding tube right off the bat. He may need one temporarily until they can pinpoint the cause of his problem.

Your Dad's fortunate to have you as his advocate.

Rrae · 03-23-2010, 12:23 PM

Just wanted to say I'm sorry to hear about your father's struggles....

You've found a wonderful place full of caring people.

This forum has so much to offer in the way of support, info, care, etc.....

I'm not familiar with what your father is experiencing, but there are many here who will have suggestions and be able to help direct you to some of the areas here that may be of help.

Best Wishes
Rae

Darlene · 03-25-2010, 01:15 AM

Hello and welcome to NeuroTalk. Happy to see you have come to be with us. Just let us know if we can be of any help. There are great number of fellow members here to assist as possible. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Again welcome, looking forward to seeing you around.

Darlene

Friend2U · 03-25-2010, 05:04 AM

Welcome to Neuro Talk. I see you have been given some good suggestions already. I'm sorry to not be knowledgable in this area for you. But I do offer my thoughts and prayers. I am hoping your father finds comfort soon and the doctors can find the cause of his difficulties.
Blessings to you.

azoyizes · 03-25-2010, 05:56 PM

Hi, and welcome to NT! This is such a great place with many caring, helpful, and just plain nice people.

We're glad you found us!