Q. What is the difference between odynophagia and dysphagia?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Odynophagia and dysphagia are two distinct conditions that affect a person's ability to swallow.

Odynophagia refers specifically to painful swallowing, or the sensation of something sharp or burning within the throat during or after swallowing. It can be triggered by a variety of causes, including acid reflux, an infection such as strep throat, an esophageal tumor, inflammatory diseases such as lupus and scleroderma, physical trauma caused by a heart attack or stroke, tumors in the upper digestive tract (esophagus), certain types of medication use (including antacids containing aluminum hydroxide), and even allergies to certain foods.

Dysphagia is more broadly defined as difficulty in swallowing – either complete inability to swallow solid food/liquids properly or being unable to clear food from the mouth during swallowing. It can also be caused by a number of different conditions including blockages due to anatomical defects at birth like cleft palate/lip; neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease; stroke; head injury; GERD; cancerous growths in the oropharynx/upper digestive tract (esophagus); paralysis of facial nerves due to Bell’s Palsy etc. Certain issues with teeth alignment could also lead to difficulty while chewing leading up towards dysphagia eventually.

As you can see from above description both Odynophagias and Dysphagic differ on their grounds but share same symptoms like pain while eating & drinking and giving trouble in clearing food out of mouth respectively for both cases . It is important for anyone who experiences these symptoms—or has regular pain when swallowing—to contact their healthcare provider right away so they can evaluate possible underlying causes and create a treatment plan tailored specifically for them.

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Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.

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