What are common presentations of Zenker's diverticulum?

Zenker's diverticulum is an esophageal condition characterized by the formation of a pouch in the pharynx, leading to various symptoms related to swallowing and breath. Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is one of the hallmark symptoms, often presenting gradually over months to years as the diverticulum enlarges and interferes with the normal passage of food. Patients may experience a sensation of food being stuck in the throat or chest, which effectively contributes to the diagnosis.

Halitosis, or foul breath, occurs due to food retention and fermentation in the diverticulum, resulting in bad odor. This is another common presentation associated with the condition, as the decaying food trapped in the diverticulum leads to increased bacterial growth.

Other options do not accurately reflect the typical clinical picture of Zenker's diverticulum. For instance, severe vomiting and diarrhea are not characteristic presentations of this condition; they are more commonly associated with gastrointestinal infections or other disorders. Similarly, chest pain and fever could suggest an infection or another acute process but are not standard features of Zenker's diverticulum. Unexpected weight gain and bloating do not correlate with the nature of this diverticulum, as dysphagia typically leads to decreased caloric intake, resulting in potential weight loss rather than