How to Get Unstuck

Everyone feels stuck sometimes — whether from an unfulfilling job, a difficult relationship or a general sense of stalled progress in life. But there are ways to get unstuck, and it all starts with understanding what it means to feel stuck in the first place.

A man with dysphagia (inability to swallow solids or liquids) presents to the emergency department. He explains that his symptoms began four days ago when he noticed difficulty in deglutition, which was then followed by spitting and choking sensations. He denied any nausea, vomiting, chest pain or previous history of similar symptoms. The patient was able to stand up but had no balance. He stated that the problem was getting worse with time.

The patient was diagnosed with a traumatic nasopharynx. He was given fluids and discharged. He was instructed to follow-up with his primary care provider.