Title: Cricopharyngeal Dysfunction Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment
Headings: CRICOPHARYNGEAL DYSFUNCTION
CRICOPHARYNGEAL DYSFUNCTION
Content: Cricopharyngeal Dysfunction Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment
CRICOPHARYNGEAL DYSFUNCTION
The cricopharyngeus muscle is located at the bottom of the throat, between the throat and the esophagus. This muscle is normally contracted, preventing the reflux of foods from the esophagus into the throat. The cricopharyngeus muscle normally relaxes during swallowing, allowing food and liquids to pass easily from the throat into the esophagus. However, often with aging, the muscle may have difficulty relaxing. Symptoms of cricopharyngeal dysfunction or hypertrophy include: Difficulty swallowing
Difficulty passing solids
Feeling that food is stuck in the throat
Diagnosis of cricopharyngeal dysfunction may be obtained with: Complete head and neck examination
Laryngoscopy
Esophagoscopy
Esophagogram
Modified Barium Swallow Study
Treatment of this disorder may involve dietary modifications, although this does not cure the condition. A dilation, or stretching of the esophagus and cricopharyngeus muscle, may temporarily improve symptoms, although the muscle tightening may return. Botox may be used to temporarily relax the muscle. Botox is placed through an injection in the neck and lasts for 3-6 months depending on the patient and the dose used.