what can cause dysphagia
Possible causes of dysphagia can include: 1  Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis - an incurable form of progressive neurodegeneration - over time, the nerves in the spine and brain progressively lose function. 2  Stroke - brain cells die due to lack of oxygen because blood flow is impaired.
Oropharyngeal dysphagia can result from abnormal functioning of the nerves and muscles of the mouth, pharynx (back of the throat) and upper esophageal sphincter (muscle at the top end of the swallowing tube). Diseases that involve the swallowing tube (esophagus) can cause esophageal dysphagia. When a patient is being evaluated for dysphagia, it is important for the doctor to determine which type of dysphagia is more likely, oropharyngeal or esophageal, as different tests are ordered for each type.