Dysphagia is the medical term for swallowing difficulties. Some people with dysphagia have problems swallowing certain foods or liquids, while others can't swallow at all. Other signs of dysphagia include: Over time, dysphagia can also cause symptoms such as weight loss and repeated chest
infections. You should see your GP if you, or someone you care for, have difficulty swallowing or any other signs of dysphagia so you can get treatment to help with your symptoms. Early investigation can also help to rule out other more serious conditions, such as oesophageal
cancer. Your GP will assess you and may refer you for further tests. Read more about diagnosing dysphagia. Treating dysphagiaTreatment usually depends on the cause and type of dysphagia. Many cases of dysphagia can be improved with careful management, but a cure isn't always possible. Treatments for dysphagia include:
Read more about treating dysphagia. Causes of dysphagiaDysphagia is usually caused by another health condition, such as:
Children can also have dysphagia as a result of a developmental or learning disability, such as cerebral palsy. Read more about the causes of dysphagia. Complications of dysphagiaDysphagia can sometimes lead to further problems. One of the most common problems is coughing or choking, when food goes down the "wrong way" and blocks your airway. This can lead to chest infections, such as aspiration pneumonia, which require urgent medical treatment. Aspiration pneumonia can develop after accidentally inhaling something, such as a small piece of food. Warning signs of aspiration pneumonia include:
If you, or someone you care for, have been diagnosed with dysphagia and you develop these symptoms, contact your treatment team immediately, or call NHS 111. Dysphagia may mean that you avoid eating and drinking due to a fear of choking, which can lead to malnutrition and dehydration. Dysphagia can also affect your quality of life because it may prevent you from enjoying meals and social occasions. Dysphagia in childrenIf children with long-term dysphagia aren't eating enough, they may not get the essential nutrients they need for physical and mental development. Children who have difficulty eating may also find meal times stressful, which may lead to behavioural problems. Information: Social care and support guideIf you:
Our guide to care and support explains your options and where you can get support. Page last reviewed: 04 March 2021 Dysphagia is an alarming symptom that requires prompt evaluation to determine the cause and to initiate treatment. It may be due to a structural or motility (movement) abnormality as solids or liquids pass from the mouth to the stomach.
What causes weak esophagus muscles?Scleroderma. In this condition, tissues of the esophagus become hard and narrow. Scleroderma can also make the lower esophageal muscle weak, which may cause food and stomach acid to come back up into your throat and mouth.
Which of the following is recommended to help older adults manage osteoarthritis?Exercise. Exercise is important to improve flexibility, joint stability and muscle strength. Regimens such as swimming, water aerobics, and low-impact strength training are recommended. These have been shown to decrease the amount of pain and disability that osteoarthritis sufferers experience.
Which of these foods should be avoided on a sodium restricted diet?High-Sodium Foods. Smoked, cured, salted or canned meat, fish or poultry including bacon, cold cuts, ham, frankfurters, sausage, sardines, caviar and anchovies.. Frozen breaded meats and dinners, such as burritos and pizza.. Canned entrees, such as ravioli, spam and chili.. Salted nuts.. Beans canned with salt added.. |