Dysphagia

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DYSPHAGIAWhat is Dysphagia?

Dysphagia is a medical term used to describe difficulty in swallowing. It can involve problems with any stage of the swallowing process, from the mouth to the throat to the esophagus. Dysphagia can occur for a variety of reasons, including neurological conditions, muscle disorders, or physical obstructions. Symptoms may include coughing or choking while eating or drinking, a feeling of food getting stuck in the throat or chest, or pain while swallowing. Dysphagia can lead to serious health issues, such as malnutrition, dehydration, or aspiration pneumonia if not addressed.

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DYSPHAGIA CAUSESWhat are the causes?

Dysphagia can be caused by several factors, including:

Neurological conditions: Stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis can affect swallowing.
Muscle disorders: Conditions like achalasia or muscular dystrophy impair swallowing muscles.
Physical obstructions: Blockages from tumors, GERD, or strictures in the esophagus.
Aging: Age-related muscle weakness and coordination issues.
Infections/Inflammation: Throat infections or inflammation can cause temporary swallowing difficulties.
Medications: Certain drugs can impair swallowing or cause dry mouth.
Surgical complications: Procedures affecting the neck or esophagus may lead to swallowing problems.
Other conditions: Diabetes or autoimmune disorders like Sjogren’s syndrome can contribute.

DYSPHAGIA DIAGNOSISHow is it diagnosed?

Dysphagia is diagnosed through a combination of methods, including:

Medical History: A doctor will review symptoms, medical history, and any underlying conditions that could contribute to swallowing problems.
Physical Exam: The physician may examine the mouth and throat, checking for any visible issues or abnormalities that could affect swallowing.
Barium Swallow: A patient swallows a barium solution while X-rays are taken to observe the swallowing process and identify blockages or abnormalities in the esophagus.
Endoscopy (FEES): A small camera is inserted through the nose to examine the throat and vocal cords during swallowing.
Manometry: A test that measures the pressure and movement of muscles in the esophagus, helping to diagnose muscle-related issues.
Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS): A more detailed version of the barium swallow that uses real-time X-ray to study how food moves through the mouth and throat.
Speech-Language Pathologist Evaluation: A specialist may assess the individual’s swallowing ability through various tasks and tests to determine the severity and type of dysphagia.
Lab Tests: In some cases, blood tests may be done to rule out underlying conditions.

DYSPHAGIA TREATMENTHow is it treated?

Treatment for dysphagia depends on its underlying cause and severity. Common treatment options include:

Dietary Modifications: Soft, pureed, or liquid diets may be recommended to make swallowing easier and prevent choking.
Swallowing Therapy: A speech-language pathologist may teach exercises to strengthen swallowing muscles, improve coordination, and help manage the act of swallowing more effectively.
Postural Changes: Certain body positions during eating or drinking can make swallowing easier, and a therapist may guide the person in using these techniques.
Medications: If dysphagia is caused by acid reflux, inflammation, or neurological issues, medications may be prescribed to manage these conditions and reduce swallowing difficulties.
Surgical Interventions: In cases where dysphagia is caused by blockages, tumors, or structural issues, surgery may be necessary to remove obstructions or correct anatomical problems.
Feeding Tubes: For severe cases, if swallowing is unsafe or impossible, a feeding tube (such as a PEG tube) may be used to provide nutrition directly into the stomach.
Behavioral Strategies: Techniques like “slow eating,” “small bites,” or “double swallowing” may be used to improve swallowing safety and efficiency.

Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual’s needs and may involve a combination of methods.

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At Speak Easy Mobile Therapy, we bring therapy to you—whether in-person or through virtual teletherapy—offering convenient, flexible options to fit your needs.

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504-578-0251

baileigh.landrum@speakeasymobiletherapy.com

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