What Is Dysphagia?
Swallowing might seem like a simple task, but it's actually a more complicated process than you think. Many different muscles and nerves are needed to move food from the mouth to the stomach. For some people, neurological diseases or a variety of other conditions can cause the muscles and nerves to weaken or stop working altogether. This results in swallowing difficulties, also known as dysphagia (pronounced dis-fay-ja). Learn more about Dysphagia
Symptoms of Dysphagia
Some symptoms of dysphagia include:
- Frequent coughing
- Difficulty keeping liquid in the mouth
- A wet or gurgled voice, especially after swallowing
- A "lump in the throat" sensation
- Drooling
- Choking on food or saliva
- Unintended weight loss
Another sign of dysphagia is an increased number of upper respiratory infections. If food accidentally enters the airway, it can introduce bacteria into the lungs causing an infection such as pneumonia.
Someone living with dysphagia often needs more time to swallow and might find it necessary to swallow several times after each bite.
Why Dysphagia develops
Dysphagia develops for a variety of reasons. It can occur because of certain prescription medications, ill-fitting dentures and specific health conditions. These conditions may include:
- Stroke
- Cancers of the throat, mouth, head or neck.
- Multiple sclerosis
- ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease)
- Parkinson's disease
- Alzheimer's disease
- Head or neck injury
- Unmanaged GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)
Living with dysphagia is challenging, but it can be managed. Anxiety, frustration, depression—these are just a few of the emotions people may feel when they’re diagnosed with dysphagia. It’s important to work closely with a team of healthcare professionals to determine the severity of the condition and to find the best solution, so mealtimes become enjoyable again.