Many people today suffer from dysphagia. Many underlying conditions can lead to the swallowing disorder, which drastically impacts the person’s quality of life. Every person should know the signs and symptoms of this disorder so they can seek early diagnosis and treatment for the best outcomes.
Dysphagia Causes
A neurological condition, a mechanical issue, or a developmental problem may cause dyspharia. Neurological conditions Remain the most common cause. Stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis are three conditions that affect the nerves responsible for controlling the muscles when a person swallows. These individuals may need nectar as a thickening agent when eating or drinking.
Mechanical causes of dysphagia range from an esophageal stricture to gastroesophageal reflux disease and esophageal tumors. Developmental causes of dysphagia include cerebral palsy and premature birth. Doctors work to determine the cause and develop an appropriate treatment program.
Signs of Dysphagia
Some signs of dysphagia are apparent. A person may have trouble swallowing because they experience pain and discomfort when doing so. People often report they feel as if there is something stuck in their throat or chest, and they may choke or cough. Some people cannot swallow and will regurgitate their food.
Other signs are more subtle. Unintentional weight loss is a potential sign of dysphagia, and some people struggle with frequent heartburn. The throat may always hurt, and the person’s speech or voice quality may be affected.
Diagnosing Dysphagia
Doctors take a detailed patient history and examine the patient. Depending on their findings, they may order tests. Standard tests include swallowing and imaging tests. The doctor may also order an esophagoscopy, manometry, or pH monitoring.
Treating Dysphagia
Doctors develop a treatment plan based on the underlying cause and severity of the dysphagia. They may prescribe medications for the patient or do surgery. Dilation is done when the esophagus is narrowing.
Speech and occupational therapists may be called in to help a patient with dysphagia. They help the patient complete exercises to strengthen the muscles and coordinate swallowing. Dietary changes, such as thickening the food, may also be recommended. The doctor will monitor the patient and change the treatment plan as needed.
The Risks of Untreated Dysphagia
Untreated dysphagia can cause health problems. The person is more at risk of aspirating, which can lead to pneumonia. They may be unable to eat a balanced diet, leading to weight loss, and dehydration remains a concern. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent these health issues and complications.
Managing Dysphagia
A patient’s prognosis depends on the underlying cause of their condition. Some people only experience dysphagia for a short period, while others live with it for years. Medical professionals must monitor the patient, and the patient must adhere to their treatment plan. Doing so will allow any problems or disease progression to be detected quickly. Patients and their caregivers must also be educated on this disorder and the importance of following the medical team’s treatment plan.
Any person may occasionally experience swallowing difficulties. When they become persistent or the person begins losing weight and finds it challenging to eat, medical help is needed. The doctor must determine why these symptoms are occurring and ensure the patient doesn’t have a life-threatening condition that needs immediate attention. Early treatment improves the patient’s prognosis and makes it easier to manage their dysphagia.