Swallowing is a natural and effortless process for many people. However, for approximately 15 million individuals in the United States, this seemingly simple action can become a significant challenge due to a condition known as dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing.
What are the types of dysphagia?
Dysphagia is categorized into two primary types, each originating from different parts of the swallowing mechanism.
Esophageal dysphagia
Esophageal dysphagia arises when issues affect the esophagus, the muscular tube responsible for transporting food from the throat to the stomach. Several factors can contribute to esophageal dysphagia, including inflammation, narrowing, or obstruction of the esophagus.
What are symptoms of esophageal dysphagia?
Common symptoms of this type include:
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Difficulty swallowing can lead to reduced food intake and subsequent weight loss.
- Decreased Appetite: A lack of interest in eating due to discomfort or difficulty swallowing.
- Chest Pain: Pain or discomfort in the chest area after swallowing, which may feel like a pressure or burning sensation.
- Nocturnal Coughing: Persistent coughing during the night, often as food or liquid may enter the airway.
- Nausea: Feeling of nausea or discomfort after eating, potentially due to undigested food in the esophagus.
Oropharyngeal dysphagia
Oropharyngeal dysphagia affects the throat (pharynx) and mouth (oropharynx), causing difficulties in the initial phase of swallowing. This type often involves muscular or neurological issues.
What are symptoms of oropharyngeal dysphagia?
Symptoms may include:
- Extended Chewing Time: Taking an unusually long time to chew food properly.
- Food Sticking in the Throat: Frequent sensation of food getting lodged in the throat.
- Drooling: Excessive saliva production or difficulty controlling saliva.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Similar to esophageal dysphagia, often due to eating difficulties.
- Decreased Appetite: Disinterest in food, which can result from discomfort or difficulty swallowing.
- Breathing Problems While Eating: Difficulty breathing or choking incidents during meals.
- Frequent Coughing While Eating: Persistent coughing when trying to eat, which might indicate aspiration or difficulty with the swallowing process.
What are treatment options for dysphagia?
The management and treatment of dysphagia vary based on the underlying cause and type of dysphagia. Treatment strategies are tailored to address the specific issues contributing to swallowing difficulties. Here are some commonly recommended approaches:
Swallowing exercises
Therapeutic exercises can help strengthen and coordinate the muscles involved in swallowing. These exercises are designed to retrain the muscles to work effectively together, making swallowing safer and easier. A speech-language pathologist or occupational therapist typically guides these exercises.
Dietary adjustments
Modifying your diet can be crucial in managing dysphagia. Your healthcare provider might recommend specific types of food that are easier to swallow, such as soft or pureed foods, and suggest avoiding certain textures or consistencies that may worsen swallowing difficulties. Dietary changes are often tailored to each individual’s needs.
Medications
If dysphagia is linked to conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or chronic heartburn, medications may be prescribed. These medications aim to reduce stomach acid and prevent it from irritating the esophagus, thereby alleviating symptoms related to acid reflux.
Seeing an ENT specialist for dysphagia
If you suspect you are experiencing dysphagia, it is essential to consult an ENT specialist. A thorough evaluation can help determine the type and cause of dysphagia, leading to a more accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. Early intervention can significantly improve your quality of life and ease the difficulties associated with swallowing challenges.
Find an ENT specialist near you if you are experiencing symptoms of dysphasia.
