Hello @loribroda

I agree with Colleen, @colleenyoung, that it is wonderful that the tumor was not cancerous. I can certainly understand your frustration with having a swallowing problem. That is such a difficult problem to deal with. Do you have choking spells or do you just feel like things get stuck? I have had vocal cord surgery for a a paralyzed vocal cord and also have problems swallowing (both before the surgery and again several years after the surgery).

I do agree that seeing a speech pathologist is a great next step. Speech therapists do more than speech therapy, they can also assist with swallowing problems. Have you had a referral to one of these specialists? If not, please ask for a referral. You will be pleased that you did.

I'm also wondering that when you had the various EGDs did they find a way to help with the swallowing problems?

Please know that it is your right to get a second opinion. Find a university medical center or a health care facility like Mayo Clinic with a good multi-disciplinary health care approach. These types of medical centers are also research-oriented and are great at helping with difficult to solve health problems.

Will you post again and let me know who you are doing?

Lori, to share my story and not to scare you but my December EGD showed no cancer but symptoms similar to yours continued and worsened. Doctors did several swallow tests and prescribed medications with no improvement or answers. Finally in April, at my insistence an EGD with ultrasound showed Stage 3 esophageal cancer. In May chemo and radiation began. The chemo & radiation were hard but allowed me to eat again. August esophagectomy at Mayo Rochester. Now 6 months later with some restrictions living a near to normal life. Cancer free. Hoping this will help you and others.