Aphagia is the inability or refusal to swallow. The word is derived from the Ancient Greek prefix "α", meaning "not" or "without," and the suffix "φαγία", meaning "to eat." It is related to dysphagia, which is difficulty swallowing and odynophagia, painful swallowing. Aphagia may be temporary or long term, depending on the affected organ. It is an extreme, life-threatening case of dysphagia. Depending on the cause, untreated dysphagia may develop into aphagia.

Aphagia is usually the result of many different diseases as well as different medical treatments. Some common causes of aphagia are aesophageal cancer, globus pharyngis (lumps in the throat), multiple sclerosis, chemotherapy and Parkinson's disease. Damage to the lateral hypothalamus can also lead to aphagia. Other causes might be due to depression, cervical spine disease and conversation disorders.

During the treatment of aphagia (or dysphagia), it is important to provide adequate nutrition and hydration. If a person is not able to tolerate a regular diet, diet modifications and alternative means of nutrition may be considered. These include thickening liquids or by changing the texture of the solid foods to reduce the required amount of chewing needed.

True treatment of aphagia/dysphagia comes from neuromuscular re-education and strengthening/coordination in most cases. This can be achieved by use of pharyngeal strengthening exercises, thermal stimulation of the swallowing trigger and oral motor exercises.

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