HomeAnswersNeurologydysphagiaI feel like something is stuck in my throat, that is causing me difficulty swallowing. Please help.

Does amyotrophic lateral sclerosis cause dysphagia?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At June 21, 2023
Reviewed AtJune 21, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I began having fasciculations after getting the second dose of COVID vaccine. Then I got COVID last year. For eight months, I was struggling with weakness in my arms and legs, fatigue, and more body twitches. I got an EMG and it was normal. In the eighth month, I was able to start cycling and running again. I am doing 5000 steps and cycling around 100 miles a week. My legs and arms feel better. Not 100 %, but better. I recently had a cold and then the flu, followed by a bad bout of acid reflux. Now I am having issues with my throat. It feels swollen and like I have something stuck. I am having a hard time eating. I am not choking but food does feel like it is harder to swallow. I am freaking out that I might have ALS. The neurologist checked my vitals and said that I have about as much of a chance of having ALS as he does. But I am still anxious about it, especially since I am having issues with my throat. Please help.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. However, I can reassure you that your neurologist is right and your throat and swallowing symptoms are not a kind of ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) as it does not cause any sensory symptoms. Instead, I suggest you set an appointment with an ENT specialist and a gastroenterologist. There is a high possibility that your problem is related to continuous gastroesophageal reflux and Omeprazole may not be sufficient to solve it. Chronic insult from gastric reflux may lead to severe throat, epiglottis, and or vocal injuries or increase the risk of esophageal pharyngeal cancers.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have lots of sensory issues with my throat right now. I have a lot of anxiety dealing with COVID. My Neurologist is close to diagnosing me with long COVID and benign fasciculations. I really want to believe and trust this response. It is just so hard dealing with the fear of ALS.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

It is a prevalent problem. Benign fasciculation is so common and it is frightening for sufferers. Nevertheless, fasciculation would be a grave sin, just if muscle atrophy accompanies it. Otherwise, it is benign and usually a temporary problem. Therefore, believe your neurologist and follow your throat problem with ENT and GI specialist.

Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Seyedaidin Sajedi
Dr. Seyedaidin Sajedi

Neurology

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Read answers about:

alsacid refluxdysphagia

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Neurology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy