10 Causes of Dysphagia
Cause #6: Zenker’s Diverticulum
Zenker’s diverticulum is also known as a pharyngeal pouch. It is a diverticulum of the esophageal mucosa (above the cricopharyngeal muscle). A diverticulum is an abnormal sac formed at a weak point in the wall of a specific part of the digestive tract. In this case, since it does not involve all the layers of the esophageal wall, it is a pseudo diverticulum. This condition occurs when the weakest portion of the pharyngeal wall balloons out when there is excessive pressure.
While some patients with Zenker’s diverticulum may be asymptomatic, some of the symptoms that may be present include regurgitation, dysphagia, halitosis, coughing, and more. A barium swallow and endoscopy help to confirm the diagnosis. This condition is most common among elderly patients.
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