Smoking and alcohol use increase your risk for cancer in the neck or esophagus. Your symptoms are concerning, in part because of your age or smoking history. To check for cancer your doctor will want to begin your evaluation with a careful examination of your neck. Your doctor will probably also choose a test to view the inside of your throat and esophagus.
A neurologic problem can also cause swallowing difficulty like you are having.
Do you have a neurologic condition such as Parkinson's disease or have you had a stroke in the past, or do you have double vision, difficulty walking, or a history of falling?