Things You Need to Know About Dysphagia

Dysphagia is a medical condition that affects the ability to swallow and eat or drink. If you know what to look for when it comes to warning signs, you will be more capable of seeking the right help and adapting after a diagnosis. This post has all the things you need to know about this condition and ways you can live your life supportively. 

The Common Symptoms

To begin, let’s examine the most common symptoms you might experience if you suffer from dysphagia. 

Difficult or Painful Swallowing

This is arguably the most common red flag to watch out for. The odd incident is nothing much to worry about, but if you are struggling to swallow and it has become a regular occurrence, this is when you need to seek medical advice. Difficulty swallowing looks like a painful throat while trying to eat or drink, and a clogged-up sensation as food or beverage tries to move down into the digestive tract. 

Frequent Heartburn

Another tell-tale sign is regular heartburn incidents. While heartburn itself is not always a serious cause for concern, when it is a symptom of dysphagia it can become quite painful and need addressing. Relief can be found in over-the-counter medication for the short term. 

Drool and Dribble

This can happen at night, or more typically while eating or drinking. Your mouth produces a higher volume of drool to compensate for the ongoing issues. This will be noticeable. 

The Stuck Sensation

Finally, if you are finding that food feels stuck behind the breastbone while trying to eat, this is a big warning sign that you could be suffering from dysphagia. It will be painful and uncomfortable and can even cause panic, which is all the more reason to seek out support. 

Aspiration

Aspiration is a less common and more serious symptom. This occurs because of coughing and choking caused by problems eating and drinking and leads to complications that need urgent and immediate treatment because they threaten your life. 

Treatment Options

Often, mild dysphagia will resolve itself. However, there is sometimes a need for further intervention. This is especially true if things have taken a turn for the worse. 

Swallowing Therapy

Working with a physical therapist, there are options for swallowing therapy to strengthen the core muscles in the throat and counteract the symptoms of dysphagia. 

Thickeners 

Sometimes, addressing the way you eat helps a lot. Using thickeners can make the whole experience that much easier and take away the stress, limit the pain, and generally support your anxiety around the condition.  The Simply Thick side effects are positive and make life easier in this respect. It ensures that you are receiving all the right nutrients to avoid malnutrition complications while creating a smoother passage for the actual eating too. 

Surgery

Sometimes, when the condition develops and resists standard treatment paths, surgery might be on the cards. Whether it is to remove a tumor or general obstruction, or a more exploratory look with a throat camera, surgery is often the most direct resolution. 

Conclusion

Dysphagia can be painful and worrisome. However, there are ways to move forward with the best version of support for your circumstances.