Occasional dysphagia is not a cause for concern if it goes away on its own. This is especially the case with dysphagia caused by eating too fast, not chewing food thoroughly and mild allergic reactions or throat infections (e.g., influenza). Sometimes, though, the use of medications like antibiotics may be necessary to relieve acute symptoms. Patients experiencing chronic dysphagia will usually need to treat the underlying condition or problem for symptoms to improve as well as to prevent potential complications, such as malnutrition and pneumonia (lung infection).

To alleviate dysphagia caused by problems with the esophagus, such as motor esophageal disorders (e.g., achalasia) or an esophageal stricture, a physician may use an endoscope with a special balloon attached to gently stretch and expand the width of the esophagus. For benign polyps, tumors in the esophagus or Zenker's diverticulum a physician may perform surgery to clear the esophageal path. Following surgery, patients will usually undergo therapy for swallowing under the guidance of a speech therapist.

Difficulty swallowing associated with prolonged gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can be treated with antacids after a stricture is dilated. In the case of esophageal spasm that is not caused by GERD or any abnormalities in the esophagus, a patient may be treated with medications to relax the esophagus and reduce discomfort (anticholinergics).

For dysphagia caused by neurological disorders or conditions (e.g., cerebral palsy, stroke, brain injury), a physician may refer the patient to a neurologist and speech or swallowing specialist for therapy. During therapy, the patient may practice exercises that help coordinate the swallowing muscles or restimulate the nerves that trigger the swallowing reflex. A patient may also learn simple techniques to place food in the mouth or to position the body and head in a manner that promotes swallowing.