Overview
Dysphagia, a medical term for difficulty swallowing, affects a significant number of individuals. It encompasses difficulties with eating, drinking, and swallowing. In some cases, swallowing becomes impossible, leading to pain and discomfort.
Types of Dysphagia
- Oropharyngeal Dysphagia: Occurs due to problems in the oral cavity or pharynx.
- Esophageal Dysphagia: Arises from issues in the esophagus or gastric cardia.
Causes of Dysphagia
- Structural Abnormalities:
- Tumors, strictures, or inflammation in the throat or esophagus.
- Functional Abnormalities:
- Weakness or dysfunction of swallowing muscles.
- Neurological conditions (e.g., stroke, Parkinson’s disease).
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Risk Factors of Dysphagia
- Age: Dysphagia is more common with aging.
- Medical Conditions: GERD, stroke, neurological disorders.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, alcohol consumption.
Symptoms of Dysphagia
1. Difficulty Swallowing: Sensation of food getting stuck.
2. Chest Pain or Discomfort: While swallowing.
3. Coughing or Choking: Especially during meals.
Preventions of Dysphagia
- Maintain Good Oral Health: Regular dental care.
- Avoid Trigger Foods: Spicy, acidic, or hard-to-swallow items.
- Stay Hydrated: Proper fluid intake.
Diagnosis of Dysphagia
- Detailed History: Assess onset, severity, and associated symptoms.
- Physical Examination: Evaluate swallowing function.
- Preliminary Investigations:
- Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy: Urgent for new-onset dysphagia.
- Head and Neck Cancer Referral: If red flags are present.
Treatment for Dysphagia
- Multidisciplinary Approach:
- Speech and Language Therapists: Assess and manage swallowing disorders.
- Dietetic Team: Address nutritional concerns.
- Address Underlying Causes:
- GERD management.
- Surgical interventions for structural abnormalities.
When to seek medical attention ?
- Urgently:
- New-onset dysphagia.
- Red flags (e.g., unintentional weight loss, dysphonia).
- Promptly:
- Chronic dysphagia affecting daily life.
