Swallowing Difficulties and Reflux

Reflux does not always present with heartburn or indigestion. Silent reflux commonly presents with ENT manifestations such as swallowing difficulties, hoarseness, throat clearing cough, and the sensation that something is stuck in the throat. Complete workup of these conditions, when no other obvious causes are identified, includes visualization of the esophagus (esophagoscopy). Our center is one of the only ones in the state of Connecticut to offer an in-office endoscopy service called transnasal esophagoscopy (TNE).  This procedure is performed under topical anesthesia and eliminates loss of a day of work or need for a ride for transportation.

Our providers also offer advanced, minimally invasive treatments for swallowing problems including Botox^® injections and endoscopic diverticulectomy for Zenker’s diverticulum when there is an extra pouch in the esophagus causing swallowing problems, bad breath, and regurgitation of food. An endoscopic approach often negates the need for an external incision on the neck.