What medical term is used to refer to difficulty in swallowing?

Dysphagia is the medical term that specifically refers to difficulty in swallowing. This condition can result from various underlying issues, such as neurologic disorders, obstructions in the throat or esophagus, or muscular problems affecting the swallowing process. Understanding this term is essential in the clinical setting, as it guides healthcare professionals in diagnosing and managing conditions related to swallowing difficulties.

The other terms listed are related to swallowing but convey different meanings. Achalasia is a disorder characterized by the failure of the esophageal sphincter to relax, leading to swallowing problems, but it is not used as a general term for difficulty in swallowing. Oligodynia refers to the condition of experiencing limited or reduced pain, while bradyphagia indicates an abnormally slow swallowing process. These terms do not capture the broader concept of swallowing difficulties as clearly as dysphagia does. Thus, dysphagia is the most accurate and widely recognized term for difficulty in swallowing.