Dysphagia, an umbrella term for any disorder that causes difficulty swallowing, has several causes. This includes brain disturbances and nervous system issues resulting from diseases such as Parkinson’s or multiple sclerosis. A stroke can also lead to oral or pharynx dysfunction.
The two other main causes are achalasia, characterized by the loss of sphincter muscle relaxation, and esophageal narrowing from acid reflux or tumors. In any case, dysphagia can be painful, and in rare situations, make it impossible to swallow. The disorder occurs at any age, though it’s more prevalent among older adults.
Symptoms
There are several indicators to look out for when diagnosing dysphagia. They include:
- Pain when swallowing
- Drooling and hoarseness
- Regular heartburn
- Regurgitation (food coming back up)
- The feeling of food getting stuck in the throat or sternum
- Weight loss
If you or a loved one identify with these symptoms and regularly struggles when swallowing food, it’s important to see a healthcare provider for further guidance. These concerns are best addressed as soon as possible to prevent the risk of an obstruction in your throat interfering with breathing.
Treatment
So, what is the best course of action for treating dysphagia? It depends on your specific problem. While complex issues typically require specialist attention, most swallowing difficulties can easily be managed with appropriate tools.
For example, you can make use of food thickeners. The instant mix solution that Simply Thick provides uses a xanthan gum formula (rather than starch) to help those with dysphagia drink and eat their favorite food normally. Here are a few more things you can do to improve your symptoms:
- Sit upright and tilt your head slightly forward when eating
- Stay focused on the task of eating and minimize distractions
- Eat slowly and separate food into smaller pieces before chewing thoroughly
It’s generally easier to swallow after chewing your food until its consistency becomes more liquid. You may need to try to swallow more than once per bite. If anything gets stuck, gently clear your throat and take a breath before trying once more. With enough concentration, you can see a noticeable improvement in your ability to swallow.
Another useful strategy is to increase saliva production, thus training yourself to swallow more regularly and effortlessly. You can periodically chew gum or an iced treat such as popsicles to do this. Drinking plenty of water is also helpful.
Risk Factors
There are two main risk factors for dysphagia, namely aging and health conditions. The former has to do with the natural deterioration of the esophagus, and ties in with the latter when it comes to greater risk of stroke and conditions such as Parkinson’s disease. Individuals with certain neurological disorders are also more likely to have difficulty swallowing.
If you are struggling and losing weight or failing to get enough nutrients, it may be necessary to use a feeding tube. As always, it’s best to consult a doctor about these matters so that you can be treated according to your individual symptoms.
