Can Fibromyalgia Cause Difficulty Swallowing: Exploring the Connection

Fibromyalgia is a complex and often misunderstood condition that affects millions of people around the world. While most people associate fibromyalgia with widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue and sleep disturbances, it can also cause a range of lesser-known symptoms that are just as distressing. One of these puzzling symptoms is difficulty swallowing, medically known as dysphagia. If you have fibromyalgia and have found yourself struggling to swallow food or liquids at times, you are not alone. Many people with fibromyalgia report this issue, and understanding the connection can help you manage it more effectively.

To grasp how fibromyalgia might contribute to difficulty swallowing, it is important to first understand what dysphagia involves. Dysphagia refers to the sensation of food sticking in your throat or chest, coughing or choking when eating or drinking or experiencing pain when swallowing. For some, it may feel like their throat muscles are not working properly or that something is blocking the passage of food. Dysphagia can range from mild inconvenience to a serious health concern that affects nutrition and hydration.

Fibromyalgia is not classified as a disease of the muscles of the throat or esophagus, so how can it lead to swallowing difficulties? The answer lies in the way fibromyalgia affects the nervous system and muscles throughout the body. Fibromyalgia is thought to result from abnormal pain processing in the brain and spinal cord. This central sensitivity can affect not only how you feel pain but also how your muscles respond. Since the muscles involved in swallowing are part of the musculoskeletal system, they may also be impacted by the same dysfunction that causes fibromyalgia pain and stiffness.

People with fibromyalgia often experience muscle tightness, spasms and fatigue. These issues can extend to the muscles of the neck and throat, making it harder for them to coordinate the complex process of swallowing. The act of swallowing involves a series of precise muscle movements that move food from the mouth through the throat and esophagus to the stomach. If these muscles are tight, weak or uncoordinated, swallowing can become difficult or uncomfortable.

Additionally, fibromyalgia can contribute to swallowing issues through its impact on the autonomic nervous system. This system controls involuntary body functions such as heart rate, digestion and the movement of food through the esophagus. Many people with fibromyalgia have what is called dysautonomia, a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system. This can lead to problems with the esophagus not moving food efficiently, causing sensations of food sticking or delayed swallowing.

Another factor to consider is that fibromyalgia often coexists with other conditions that can cause swallowing difficulties. Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is very common in people with fibromyalgia. GERD can lead to inflammation and narrowing of the esophagus, making swallowing more difficult. Irritable bowel syndrome, another condition that frequently occurs alongside fibromyalgia, may also contribute indirectly to digestive and swallowing issues due to overall dysfunction of the digestive tract.

Stress and anxiety, which are common in people living with fibromyalgia, can also play a role. High levels of stress can lead to muscle tension in the neck and throat, making it feel like there is a lump in the throat or that swallowing is more difficult. This is sometimes referred to as globus sensation and can be quite distressing even though no physical blockage exists.

It is important to point out that difficulty swallowing should never be ignored. While fibromyalgia can contribute to this symptom, there are many other potential causes that may require specific treatment. Conditions such as neurological disorders, structural abnormalities of the esophagus, or even certain medications can lead to dysphagia. If you experience frequent difficulty swallowing, unintentional weight loss, pain when swallowing, or if food or liquids consistently come back up, you should seek medical advice promptly.

If your swallowing difficulties are related to fibromyalgia, there are steps you can take to manage this symptom. Small changes in how you eat and drink can make a big difference. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and chewing food thoroughly can help. Choosing softer foods or adding sauces and gravies to make foods easier to swallow may also reduce discomfort. Staying upright while eating and for a period afterward can help prevent food from getting stuck or triggering reflux.

Gentle stretching and relaxation exercises for the neck and throat muscles may improve muscle coordination and reduce tension. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or progressive muscle relaxation can help manage the stress that might contribute to muscle tightness and swallowing difficulty. Some people also find that speech therapy or working with a swallowing specialist can provide tailored strategies for safer, more comfortable eating.

Staying hydrated is essential. Dry mouth, which can occur as a side effect of fibromyalgia medications or simply as part of the condition, can make swallowing more difficult. Sipping water throughout the day, using a humidifier at night, or using saliva substitutes can help keep your mouth and throat moist.

If GERD is contributing to your swallowing problems, managing reflux can provide relief. This might include avoiding trigger foods like spicy or acidic items, eating smaller meals, avoiding lying down immediately after eating, and possibly using medications as recommended by your healthcare provider.

Maintaining open communication with your healthcare team is key. Let your doctor know about your swallowing difficulties so they can rule out other causes and help you find the most effective management strategies. In some cases, they may recommend tests such as a barium swallow or endoscopy to better understand what is happening in your esophagus.

It is also helpful to keep a symptom diary. Note when swallowing difficulties occur, what you were eating or drinking, and any other symptoms you experienced at the same time. This information can help your healthcare provider identify patterns and tailor your treatment plan to your specific needs.

While difficulty swallowing can be a worrying and frustrating symptom, it is possible to find relief and improve your quality of life. With the right combination of medical support, self-care strategies and lifestyle adjustments, you can manage this symptom and continue to enjoy meals and stay nourished.

FAQs

Is difficulty swallowing common in people with fibromyalgia
Yes, many people with fibromyalgia report difficulty swallowing at times. This can be due to muscle tension, autonomic nervous system dysfunction or coexisting conditions like GERD.

How do I know if my swallowing issues are from fibromyalgia or something else
If swallowing difficulties are frequent, painful or associated with weight loss or choking, it is important to see a doctor. They can perform tests to determine the cause and rule out other conditions.

Can fibromyalgia cause permanent swallowing problems
Fibromyalgia-related swallowing difficulties are typically not permanent and can improve with management of the underlying muscle tension and related factors. However, ongoing symptoms should always be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

What treatments can help with fibromyalgia-related swallowing difficulty
Treatments may include dietary changes, physical therapy, stress management, speech therapy, and addressing any underlying conditions like GERD. Staying hydrated and practicing good eating habits can also help.

Should I be worried if I have trouble swallowing with fibromyalgia
Occasional difficulty swallowing can occur with fibromyalgia, but persistent or worsening symptoms should always be checked by a healthcare provider to rule out other causes.