What are the symptoms of swallowing difficulties (Dysphagia)?

The symptoms that are associated with this condition include:
(Blake, 2005)
 

• Pain while swallowing
• Choking or coughing while eating
• Pressure or pain in the chest
• Bringing food back up
• Heartburn
• Food or stomach acid backing up into your throat
• Gurgling sound in your throat
• Unexpected weight loss

Very important: If you suffer from any of the above symptoms, please seek medical advice.

What is the next step if you are having difficulty taking your tablets?

Use the checklist above to see if a liquid medicine might be more suitable, then let the doctor, nurse or pharmacist know.

You should not crush your tablets or open capsules unless the patient information leaflet that accompanied your medicine says that it is OK, or you have been directed by the doctor or pharmacist to do so. 

Back to Introduction or Do you find tablets hard to swallow?