Illustration of a tracheal diverticulum causing dysphagia.

Rare Condition Alert: How a Tracheal Diverticulum Led to Unexpected Swallowing Problems

Avery Sinclair in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 3 min read.

"Uncover the complexities of tracheal diverticula and their surprising impact on dysphagia, offering insights for early diagnosis and effective management."

Tracheal diverticula, though rare, are benign conditions marked by small, air-filled pockets that form near the trachea. These pockets can be singular or multiple. They often go unnoticed, but a recent study using chest computed tomography (CT) found that they appear in 2% to 3.7% of patients examined.

In most cases, individuals may not even realize they have a tracheal diverticulum because the symptoms are often vague. Ideally, high resolution computed tomography (CT) scans are essential for confirming the presence and characteristics of these diverticula. Once diagnosed, surgical removal is typically the preferred treatment method.

Here, we explore the case of a 61-year-old woman with an acquired tracheal diverticulum, where the primary and only symptom was dysphagia. This case shines a light on the less common ways tracheal diverticula can manifest, providing key insights for diagnosis and treatment.

What is a Tracheal Diverticulum and Why Does it Cause Swallowing Problems?

Illustration of a tracheal diverticulum causing dysphagia.

A tracheal diverticulum is an uncommon anomaly featuring a small pouch or sac protruding from the trachea, the windpipe that carries air to your lungs. These diverticula are categorized as either congenital, meaning present from birth, or acquired, developing later in life.

The reasons for the development of acquired tracheal diverticula are varied, but here are some factors:

Weak Spots in the Trachea: The trachea’s structure includes cartilage and membranous sections. Weaknesses at these junctions can allow pouches to form.
Increased Pressure: Chronic coughing or respiratory infections can raise pressure in the trachea, leading to herniation of the lining.
Prior Surgeries: In some instances, previous surgeries, like thyroidectomies, can compromise the tracheal wall, predisposing it to diverticulum formation.

In our featured case, the 61-year-old woman had a history of a thyroidectomy 30 years prior, which may have contributed to the development of her tracheal diverticulum. The diverticulum's location pressed against her esophagus, leading to increasing difficulty swallowing. Although rare, this case illustrates that tracheal diverticula can directly cause dysphagia due to mechanical compression.

Early Detection and Management of Tracheal Diverticulum

For individuals experiencing persistent swallowing difficulties, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to explore the possibility of a tracheal diverticulum. High-resolution CT scans can confirm the diagnosis, allowing for timely intervention and improved quality of life. While the condition is rare, understanding its potential impact can lead to more effective management and relief from associated symptoms.

About this Article -

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Everything You Need To Know

What is a tracheal diverticulum, and how can it lead to swallowing problems?

A tracheal diverticulum is an uncommon pouch or sac that protrudes from the trachea. They can be present from birth (congenital) or develop later in life (acquired). These diverticula can cause swallowing problems because the diverticulum can press against the esophagus. If persistent swallowing difficulties are present, a high-resolution CT scan can be used to confirm diagnosis.

What are the primary causes of acquired tracheal diverticula?

Acquired tracheal diverticula can result from several factors. Weak spots in the trachea, particularly where cartilage meets membranous sections, are vulnerable. Chronic coughing or respiratory infections can elevate pressure within the trachea, potentially causing herniation. Previous surgeries, like thyroidectomies, may also compromise the tracheal wall, predisposing it to diverticulum formation.

Why are high-resolution CT scans so important in diagnosing tracheal diverticula?

High-resolution CT scans are essential for diagnosing tracheal diverticula. They provide detailed images that can confirm the presence, size, and location of the diverticulum. This level of detail is crucial because the symptoms of a tracheal diverticulum, such as dysphagia, can be vague or attributed to other conditions.

How does a tracheal diverticulum specifically cause dysphagia?

Dysphagia is the primary symptom highlighted when a tracheal diverticulum causes swallowing difficulties. This occurs when the diverticulum presses against the esophagus, making it difficult to swallow. The severity of dysphagia can vary, but persistent swallowing difficulties warrant investigation for potential underlying causes like tracheal diverticulum.

What is the typical treatment for a tracheal diverticulum, and why is early detection important?

Surgical removal is typically the preferred treatment for tracheal diverticulum once diagnosed, especially if it is causing symptoms like dysphagia. The surgery involves removing the pouch or sac from the trachea, alleviating pressure on the esophagus and resolving swallowing difficulties. Early detection and management are crucial for improving quality of life and preventing further complications.