What condition is often associated with dysphagia?

Dysphagia, which is the difficulty in swallowing, can be associated with several conditions, but Plummer-Vinson syndrome is particularly notable for its strong link to this symptom. This rare disorder is characterized by a triad of symptoms: iron deficiency anemia, esophageal webs, and dysphagia. The esophageal webs are thin membranes that can obstruct the swallowing passage, leading to difficulty when eating or drinking. Patients with this syndrome often present with progressive difficulty in swallowing solids and may require medical intervention, which highlights the direct connection between Plummer-Vinson syndrome and dysphagia.

While acid reflux and peptic ulcers can cause chest pain or a sense of discomfort during swallowing, they do not directly lead to mechanical obstructions as seen in Plummer-Vinson syndrome. Celiac disease can cause various gastrointestinal symptoms, but it primarily involves malabsorption rather than a direct mechanical swallowing issue. Therefore, the association of dysphagia is strongest with Plummer-Vinson syndrome.