Is difficulty swallowing in cervical spondylosis serious?

Sep 13, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My neighbor has been suffering from cervical spondylosis for a while, and recently felt difficulty swallowing while eating. I wonder how serious swallowing difficulty caused by cervical spondylosis can be?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Dysphagia caused by cervical spondylosis can be severe. Cervical spondylosis is primarily a condition resulting from degenerative changes in the cervical spine. When dysphagia occurs, it is usually due to sharp osteophytes forming on the anterior aspect of the vertebrae, which compress the esophagus and lead to esophageal narrowing; this situation is generally considered serious. Patients are advised to follow standardized treatment under medical supervision during the course of the disease.