Learn about Dysphagia Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Dysphagia and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Dysphagia

Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is a symptom evaluated and managed by an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist. The ENT's role involves a comprehensive diagnostic workup to identify the underlying cause, which can range from structural issues like strictures or tumors to neurological conditions or muscular dysfunction. The diagnostic process typically includes a detailed patient history, a physical examination of the head and neck, and specialized tests such as a flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) or a videofluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS). Based on the diagnosis, the ENT may recommend and perform various therapeutic procedures, including endoscopic dilation for strictures, laser therapy for obstructions, or injections for muscle weakness. The goal is to restore safe and efficient swallowing, improve nutrition, and prevent complications like aspiration pneumonia.

Key Highlights

    Comprehensive evaluation by a specialist in throat and swallowing anatomy.Utilizes advanced diagnostic tools like endoscopy and imaging for precise diagnosis.Offers a range of therapeutic procedures, from minimally invasive to surgical, tailored to the specific cause.Aims to restore safe swallowing, improve quality of life, and prevent serious complications like malnutrition and aspiration.Multidisciplinary approach often involving speech-language pathologists and dietitians for holistic care.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Persistent difficulty or pain when swallowing solids, liquids, or both.
  • Sensation of food being stuck in the throat or chest (globus sensation).
  • Recurrent coughing or choking during or after eating or drinking.
  • Unexplained weight loss or dehydration due to swallowing difficulties.
  • History of recurrent pneumonia or chest infections suggesting aspiration.
  • Following a stroke, neurological disorder (e.g., Parkinson's, ALS), or head/neck surgery or radiation.
  • Suspected structural problems like esophageal strictures, webs, or tumors.

How to prepare

  • Provide a complete medical history, including all medications and supplements.
  • Inform the doctor of any allergies, especially to anesthetics or contrast dyes.
  • Fast (no food or drink) for several hours before any endoscopic or imaging procedure as instructed.
  • Arrange for someone to drive you home after procedures involving sedation.
  • For certain tests, you may be asked to temporarily stop blood-thinning medications under doctor's guidance.
  • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to the appointment.

Risks & possible complications

  • Diagnostic procedures (like endoscopy) carry minimal risks of throat discomfort, gagging, or minor bleeding.
  • Rare risks of diagnostic endoscopy include perforation (tear) of the esophagus or an adverse reaction to sedation.
  • Therapeutic procedures (like dilation) carry risks of esophageal perforation, bleeding, or infection.
  • Post-procedure sore throat, hoarseness, or chest discomfort is common and usually temporary.
  • General anesthesia risks (if required for surgery) include reactions to medications, breathing problems, or blood clots.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • After diagnostic tests, you can usually resume normal activities once sedation wears off, often the same day.
  • Avoid eating or drinking until the gag reflex returns if topical anesthesia was used.
  • Post-therapeutic procedure (e.g., dilation), a soft or liquid diet may be recommended for a short period.
  • Take prescribed medications, such as pain relievers or acid reducers, as directed.
  • Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing and swallowing progress.
  • Work closely with a speech-language pathologist if swallowing therapy is prescribed to retrain muscles and learn safe techniques.
  • Report any severe pain, fever, difficulty breathing, or bleeding to your doctor immediately.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 0-2 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 1 day to 4 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering dysphagia in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for dysphagia compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India INR 5 Thousand – 150 Thousand 0-2 days ~ 1 day to 4 weeks Know More
Turkey TRY 17.5 Thousand – 525 Thousand 0-2 days ~ 1 day to 4 weeks Know More

Top hospitals for Dysphagia in India

These partner hospitals in India have dedicated ent teams and experience managing patients undergoing dysphagia.

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1681+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Dwarka

  • IconDelhi, India
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2478+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Jayanagar

  • IconBangalore, India
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91+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram

  • IconBangalore, India
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1837+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Salem

  • IconSalem, India
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5734+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Siliguri

  • IconSiliguri, India
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98+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Doddaballapur

  • IconBangalore, India
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65+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Salt Lake

  • IconKolkata, India
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135+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Goa

  • IconPanaji, India
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12320+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Kanakapura Road

  • IconBangalore, India
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185+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Ranchi

  • IconRanchi, India
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872+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Millers Road

  • IconBangalore, India
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418+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Hebbal

  • IconBangalore, India
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418+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Hebbal

  • IconBangalore, India
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156+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Patiala

  • IconPatiala, India
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181+ Rating

KMC Hospital Mangalore

  • IconMangalore, India
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PATIENT REVIEW

Saanvi Roy, a 68-year-old retired school...

Saanvi Roy, a 68-year-old retired school principal, had always been the vibrant heart of her family. Over the past year, she noticed a gradual but persistent difficulty swallowing, starting with dry crackers and eventually even her morning tea. Meals became a source of anxiety, marked by frequent coughing, a sensation of food sticking in her throat, and unintended weight loss. Her primary care doctor referred her to an ENT specialist, Dr. Mehta. After a videofluoroscopic swallow study revealed significant pharyngeal dysphagia with poor coordination, Dr. Mehta recommended a tailored course of swallowing therapy with a speech-language pathologist, focusing on strengthening exercises and safe swallowing strategies. Saanvi attended twice-weekly sessions diligently, practicing her exercises at home. The treatment was challenging and sometimes frustrating, but she persevered. After three months, she regained the ability to enjoy most foods safely, though she remained cautious with very dry textures. Emotionally, she journeyed from fear and social isolation, avoiding dinners with friends, to immense relief and regained confidence. She felt like she had reclaimed a fundamental joy of life and her role as the family matriarch at the dinner table.

ENT Specialists for Dysphagia

Explore experienced ent specialists who regularly perform dysphagia and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Muthu kumar s
  • 16 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Tamil, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 900
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai

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Dr. Gayatri Pandit
  • 21 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 700
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Diptarka Bhattacharyya
  • 14 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 800
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. J Jayabaskar
  • 9 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 500
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Salem, Salem

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Shalina Ray
  • 26 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 450
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Anitha Kumari AM
  • 24 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 500
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Vijay Rangachari
  • 21 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 500
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Alok Banka
  • 18 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 800
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. EV Raman
  • 43 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 850
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Girish Rai
  • 38 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 850
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Bathi Reddy
  • 36 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 850
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Anitha Kumari AM
  • 24 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 850
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Satish Nair
  • 29 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 900
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Parvinderjit Singh Kohli
  • 20 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 900
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Patiala, Patiala

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Vishal Sharma
  • 10 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 450
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Patiala, Patiala

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Praveen Kumar R
  • 14 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 800
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Mysore, Mysore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Dathathri HA
  • 14 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 800
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Mysore, Mysore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Arun Raykar N Raykar
  • 19 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Shalini Bansal
  • 8 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 550
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Kharadi, Pune

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Shanthala MN
  • 26 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 800
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Jayanagar, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated