Swallowing is a normal and hassle-free process for many people. However, for around 15 million individuals in the United States, this apparently simple action can become a considerable challenge due to a condition called dysphagia, or trouble swallowing.
Are there different types of dysphagia?
Dysphagia is classified into two primary forms, each originating from different parts of the swallowing mechanism.
Dysphagia stemming from the esophagus
Esophageal dysphagia develops when issues affect the esophagus, the muscular tube in charge of transporting food from the throat to the stomach. Esophageal dysphagia can stem from issues like a blockage or narrowing of the esophagus and inflammation.
Esophageal dysphagia symptoms
Prevalent symptoms of this type include:
- Decreased Appetite: A lack of interest in eating as a result of discomfort or difficulty swallowing.
- Nocturnal Coughing: Persistent coughing during the night, often as food or liquid enters the airway.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Trouble swallowing can lead to decreased food intake and subsequent weight loss.
- Chest Pain: A burning sensation or pressure in the chest area after swallowing.
- Nausea: Undigested food stuck in the esophagus creating nausea and discomfort.
Oropharyngeal dysphagia
Trouble in the initial stage of swallowing is a common symptom of oropharyngeal dysphagia, which generally affects the mouth (pharynx) and the throat (oropharynx). This form often involves muscular or neurological issues.
Oropharyngeal dysphagia symptoms
Symptoms may include:
- Breathing Problems While Eating: Difficulty breathing or choking incidents during meals.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Problems eating causing loss of weight, similar to esophageal dysphagia.
- Drooling: Excessive saliva production or difficulty regulating saliva.
- Food Sticking in the Throat: Food frequently gets stuck in the throat.
- Decreased Appetite: Lack of interest in food, which can result from discomfort or difficulty swallowing.
- Frequent Coughing While Eating: Chronic coughing when attempting to eat, which may indicate aspiration or difficulty with the swallowing process.
- Extended Chewing Time: Chewing takes an abnormally long time.
What are treatment options for dysphagia?
The management and treatment of dysphagia vary depending on the underlying cause and type of dysphagia. The particular issue causing difficulty swallowing will require a personalized treatment approach. The following are a few possible strategies:
Swallowing exercises
Therapeutic exercises can help strengthen and coordinate the muscles involved in swallowing. These exercises are designed to retrain the muscles to function effectively together, making swallowing safer and easier. These exercises are normally led by an occupational therapist or a speech-language pathologist.
Dietary modifications
Modifying your diet can be crucial in managing dysphagia. Your healthcare provider might recommend specific kinds of food that are easier to swallow, that includes soft or pureed foods, and recommend steering clear of certain textures or consistencies that may worsen swallowing troubles. Dietary modifications are usually customized to each individual’s requirements.
Medications
If dysphagia is linked to conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or chronic heartburn, medications may be prescribed. These medications aim to decrease stomach acid and stop it from irritating the esophagus, thereby relieving symptoms associated with acid reflux.
Getting treatment for dysphagia by an ENT specialist
It’s important that you go to an ENT specialist if you think you might be coping with dysphagia. You will get a more precise picture of what type of dysphagia you’re dealing with and the most effective treatment plan with a comprehensive evaluation by an ENT. Early treatment can substantially improve your quality of life and ease the challenges associated with swallowing difficulties.
Call us today if you are experiencing symptoms of dysphagia.