Dysphagia can be described as difficulty swallowing. Dysphagia can result from either mechanical obstruction or a functional disorder. There are two obstructions, either intrinsic or extrinsic; the difference is the origin. Intrinsic obstructions begin in the esophageal lumen wall and include strictures, tumors, and outpouchings. The extrinsic mechanical obstructions originate on the outside of the esophageal lumen. They work to narrow the esophagus by pressure pushing inward on the wall of the esophagus. Extrinsic tumors are most commonly caused by tumors. Functional dysphagia impairs esophageal motility. Neural or muscular disorders that interfere with swallowing or peristalsis are what cause functional dysphagia. The voluntary phase
