# What are the main causes of swallowing disorders? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-the-main-causes-of-swallowing-disorders Language: en Category: gastroenterology Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T17:52:53.774Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T17:52:53.774Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/what-are-the-main-causes-of-swallowing-disorders Swallowing disorders, also known as dysphagia, result from a variety of issues affecting the upper digestive tract, which includes the mouth, the back of the throat, the esophagus, the stomach, and the first part of the small intestine [\[1\]](). These causes can be structural, functional, or related to other medical conditions. Common causes that lead to difficulty swallowing include ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), hiatal hernias, structural problems such as polyps or diverticula, as well as tumors [\[1\]](). ## Understanding the Normal Swallowing Process The swallowing process requires complex coordination between the mouth, throat, and esophagus. The process begins when the tongue pushes food into the throat, then a small piece of tissue called the epiglottis bends over the windpipe to prevent choking, and food moves into the esophagus [\[3\]](). Once swallowing begins, the process becomes automatic, as nerve signals send instructions to the esophageal muscles to initiate peristalsis, which pushes food into the stomach [\[3\]](). Any disruption in these pathways can lead to swallowing disorders. ## Structural and Functional Causes Structural causes of swallowing disorders involve issues with the structure of the upper digestive tract. For example, polyps (abnormal growths) or diverticula (pouches in the intestinal wall) can cause difficulty for food to pass [\[1\]](). Esophageal strictures, which are a narrowing of the esophagus, can also make swallowing difficult [\[1\]](). Functional causes often relate to how the organs operate, such as weakness in the muscles or nerves that control swallowing. ## Medical Conditions Associated with Swallowing Disorders Swallowing disorders can be a symptom of underlying medical conditions. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach contents leak into the esophagus, is a common cause [\[1\]](). A hiatal hernia, which occurs when part of the stomach pushes into the diaphragm, can also cause GERD and consequently swallowing disorders [\[1\]](). Additionally, tumors in the upper digestive tract can cause difficulty swallowing [\[1\]](). In some cases, swallowing disorders may indicate more serious conditions such as esophageal cancer [\[1\]](). ## Diagnosis and Next Steps If you are experiencing difficulty swallowing, it is important to consult a doctor to determine the cause. The doctor may request tests such as a [Barium Swallow]() (esophagogram) (Arabic), which is an imaging test that uses X-rays with a barium substance to identify problems in the upper digestive tract [\[1\]](). This test can reveal ulcers, GERD, hiatal hernias, structural problems, and tumors [\[1\]](). In some cases, the doctor may recommend an upper GI endoscopy to examine the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum using a flexible tube equipped with a camera [\[2\]](). This procedure can help diagnose diseases such as GERD, celiac disease, and cancer [\[2\]](). If you are experiencing symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, or bloating in addition to difficulty swallowing, a barium swallow test may be necessary [\[1\]](). ## Medical references - [Barium Swallow]() - [Upper GI Endoscopy - NIDDK]() - [Your Digestive System & How it Works - NIDDK]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-the-main-causes-of-swallowing-disorders#answer