What Causes Discomfort And Pain In Xiphoid Area After Eating?

I have had pain located in the xiphoid area for about 4 or 5 months. The pain has gotten sever the last few weeks when I try to swallow food or liquids. The food gets stuck in this area and causes pain. After a few seconds the food feels as though it passes into the stomach and the pain subsides until the next swallow.