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Symptom Checker

Step 4: Read and complete the decision guide to learn more about your symptoms.

Swallowing Difficulty

Since you swallow liquids easily, your problem is not likely to be caused by a problem in the esophagus muscle or the nerves that coordinate your swallowing. It is much more likely that your problem is caused by a narrowing in your esophagus. We will consider things that can create a narrowed esophagus. One thing that can do this is irritation and swelling from a reaction to certain medicines.

Have you recently taken any of the following medications or supplements?

- Osteoporosis medicine such as alendronate (Fosamax) or ibandronate (Boniva)

- Anti-inflammatory pain medicines such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), naproxen (Naprosyn, Aleve), indomethacin (Indocin), etodolac (Lodine), piroxicam (Feldene), meloxicam (Mobic), or others

- Potassium supplements

- Iron supplements

- Doxycycline or tetracycline

Yes, I recently took one of these medicines or supplements.

No, I have not taken any of these medicines or supplements.

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