Dysphagia is the medical term for difficulty swallowing food, drinks or saliva. It can affect people in different ways, from finding certain foods difficult to swallow to being unable to swallow safely at all.
Dysphagia is usually a symptom of another condition rather than a condition itself. It can increase the risk of choking, dehydration, weight loss and chest infections, so it is important to seek medical advice if swallowing becomes difficult.
Speak to Dr Nick Hamilton ENT about swallowing difficulty treatment in London, by emailing us today at secretary@throatspecialist.co.uk
Key takeaways
- Dysphagia means having difficulty swallowing food, drinks or saliva.
- It can have many causes, including stroke, neurological conditions, reflux and cancer.
- Treatment depends on the cause and may include swallowing therapy, dietary changes or other specialist treatment.
What are common causes of dysphagia?
Dysphagia can happen when there is a problem with the muscles, nerves or structures involved in swallowing. Common causes include stroke, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, head injuries and other neurological conditions. It can also be linked to acid reflux, respiratory conditions and some cancers affecting the mouth or oesophagus.
Dysphagia is relatively common in certain groups. NICE evidence estimates that around 60% of nursing home residents and 12–13% of hospital patients have oropharyngeal dysphagia. In people aged over 50 in the general population, estimates are around 16–22%.
What are common symptoms of dysphagia?
Symptoms can vary from person-to-person. You may cough or choke when eating or drinking, feel as though food is stuck in your throat or chest, or find it difficult to chew. Some people have food or drink coming back through their nose or notice a wet or gurgly voice after swallowing.
Ongoing dysphagia can also lead to weight loss, dehydration and repeated chest infections. If food or liquid enters the airway instead of the oesophagus, this is known as aspiration and can sometimes lead to pneumonia.
What are common treatments for dysphagia?
Treatment depends on what is causing the dysphagia and how severe it is. A GP may refer you to a speech and language therapist, who can assess your swallowing and recommend appropriate strategies or exercises.
Treatment may include swallowing exercises, changing the texture of food, thickening drinks, changing your position when eating or using specially designed cups and cutlery. Some people may need treatment for an underlying condition, such as acid reflux. In more severe cases, a feeding tube may be needed to provide nutrition and fluids safely.
Read also: What are the tests for swallowing difficulties?
What are common remedies for dysphagia?
You may be advised to take smaller sips, change food textures, sit in a particular position while eating or follow specific swallowing techniques.
There is no single home remedy that treats dysphagia because the right approach depends on its cause. Following advice from a healthcare professional is important.
Good mouth care is also important, particularly for people with ongoing swallowing problems. NICE recommends regular mouth care for people with dysphagia after a stroke because it can help reduce the risk of aspiration pneumonia.
Do not simply change your diet or start swallowing exercises without professional advice if you regularly cough or choke when eating or drinking.
Is dysphagia permanent?
Dysphagia is not always permanent. Whether it improves depends on its underlying cause. For example, swallowing problems following an illness or injury may improve with time and rehabilitation, while dysphagia caused by a long-term neurological condition may require ongoing management.
After a stroke, swallowing difficulties are particularly common: almost half of people who have a stroke experience some swallowing problems during the first few weeks.
Can I get treatment for dysphagia on the NHS?
Yes. If you have symptoms of dysphagia, you can contact your GP. You may be referred for specialist assessment, including support from a speech and language therapist or dietitian. Your healthcare team can then recommend treatment based on your individual needs.
If you regularly cough or choke while eating or drinking, feel that food is stuck, or have repeated chest infections, do not ignore the symptoms. Seeking medical advice can help identify the cause and ensure you receive appropriate treatment.
Whilst a waiting list may apply to be seen on the NHS, you can speak to our private specialist Dr Nick Hamilton ENT to arrange an appointment much sooner. We are based at One Wellbeck and The London Clinic and you can find our patient information here.
