Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy (OPMD) is a rare genetic condition that causes weakness in the muscles around the upper eyelids and part of the throat called the pharynx. The condition may affect vision and cause problems swallowing and talking. OPMD affects both men and women. It often first appears between 40 and 60 years of age. As the disease slowly gets worse, the muscle weakness can extend into the neck and shoulders. In time, OPMD may affect the arms and legs and le

A Modified Barium Swallow (MBS) study is often referred to as a Videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS), helps identify why you may be having difficulty swallowing. This imaging exam uses a real time x-ray called fluoroscopy to help analyze swallowing through the mouth, throat, and esophagus. Images are recorded while you are seated and consume small amounts if food and liquid mixed with barium. The study is typically conducted by a speech-language pathologist and physician

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is difficulty in swallowing solid food (dysphagia) due to allergies. Specifically, the food becomes stuck in the esophagus after it is swallowed. Other symptoms include coughing, heartburn, and chest pain. Eosinophils are white blood cells manufactured in the bone marrow and are one of the many types of cells that actively promote inflammation. They are particularly active in the type of inflammation caused by allergic reactions. A large number

Corkscrew esophagus is a condition that results from nerve damage and makes it difficult for the body to pass food and liquid to the stomach. When a person with a healthy esophagus swallows, different parts of the esophagus squeeze at different times. The top squeezes, then the middle, then the bottom (this process is technically known as peristalsis), and this helps propel the food. The body’s immune system has attacked the nerves that release nitric oxide. When you have cor