Dysphagia
This page will help you answer your questions.
What Is Dysphagia?
People with Dysphagia experience difficulty in swallowing and may encounter pain when swallowing. Some individuals may be completely unable to swallow or may have trouble swallowing liquids, foods, or saliva. Often, dysphagia makes it challenging to consume enough calories and fluids to nourish the body and may lead to other serious medical issues.
What Are the Causes of Dysphagia?
- Dysphagia can be caused by nerve issues that control swallowing, or by problems in the muscles and other structures in the mouth, throat, neck, or esophagus, such as:
- Esophageal problems anddiseases, including esophagealirritation, masses, tumors,and abnormal formationsin the esophagus.
- Neurological problems and diseases, suchas cerebral palsy, Parkinson’sdisease, or head injuries.
- A stroke or head injury may weaken the swallowing muscles or limit sensation in the mouth and throat.
Some types of infections or irritations can cause the esophagus to narrow.
How Can You Manage Dysphagia? Tipsto Help You Manage Dysphagia.
- If you suffer from Dysphagia, the most suitable treatment to manage the condition depends on the cause and may sometimes include:
- Surgically removing or repairing abnormal formations.
- Changing the texture of foods or drinks (dietary modifications).
- Performing exercises to help the muscles work better and stimulate the nerves that trigger swallowing.
- Taking medication to reduce acid reflux or relax the esophagus.
In severe cases, you may need to follow a liquid diet.
When Should You See a Doctor?
You should consult your doctor if you or someone you care for is experiencing difficulty swallowing or any other signs of Dysphagia, so you can receive treatment or a plan to help with the symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
I am having trouble swallowing; does this mean I have esophageal cancer?
- No, there are many causes of difficulty swallowing that can be treated surgically or by following medical guidelines. However, there are some signs that might indicate the presence of malignant tumors in the esophagus that should be noted, such as:
- Smoking.
- Gradually worsening swallowing difficulty that eventually includes all types of food.
- Unexplained weight loss.
