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For The Past Seven Years, I Have Been Experiencing A

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Posted on Mon, 17 Dec 2018
Question: For the past seven years, I have been experiencing a constant urge to swallow, mild throat pain, a feeling of a lump in a throat, and a clicking sound when I swallow. I also

I have had a barium swallow test and 24-hour esophageal pH test that ruled out acid reflux. I also had an exploratory surgery that ruled out any major physical problems. When I was taking Lexapro, it helped with the constant swallowing.

Is there any other area that could be causing my symptoms that I should explore with my ENT?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Ramesh Kumar (41 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Can be anxiety related.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome to 'Ask A Doctor' service.
I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.
As most of the tests related to gastroenterology/Throat are normal and considering the fact that taking SSRI helps you i would rather suggest you to consult a neurologist.Some times due to anxiety autonomous nerves in esophagus are stimulated hence causing spasms.
So adding a mild anti anxiety medication with SSRI you are on can be very effective.

I would suggest you to consult a neurologist and not an ENT.

Hope i was helpful,
Thanks!
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Remy Koshy
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Ramesh Kumar (21 minutes later)
Thanks! Is there a specific test a neurologist can perform to figure out if my nerves are causing spasms?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Ramesh Kumar (5 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Yes.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
They can do a MRI scan or even a PET scan to see the functions of nerves.
Thanks

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Ramesh Kumar (5 hours later)
Thanks! Are there any lifestyle changes I should make while I wait to see the neurologist (in terms of diet, exercise, etc.) that be helpful?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Ramesh Kumar (19 hours later)
Brief Answer:
follow up.

Detailed Answer:
Hello again,
Take light and easily digestible food.
Avoid spicy and junk food.
No smoking or alcohol.
Eat lots of fruit and green vegetables.
Follow up with reports!
Thank you.
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Ramesh Kumar

Gastroenterologist

Practicing since :1986

Answered : 2913 Questions

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For The Past Seven Years, I Have Been Experiencing A

Brief Answer: Can be anxiety related. Detailed Answer: Hello and Welcome to 'Ask A Doctor' service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice. As most of the tests related to gastroenterology/Throat are normal and considering the fact that taking SSRI helps you i would rather suggest you to consult a neurologist.Some times due to anxiety autonomous nerves in esophagus are stimulated hence causing spasms. So adding a mild anti anxiety medication with SSRI you are on can be very effective. I would suggest you to consult a neurologist and not an ENT. Hope i was helpful, Thanks!