DIFFICULTY SWALLOWING?

YOU MAY HAVE DYSPHAGIA

Dysphagia is a medical term that means “difficulty swallowing”. When someone is unable to swallow foods and/or liquids normally, it may enter the lungs and cause coughing or choking. You may be surprised to learn that dysphagia affects nearly 3 million Canadians, and one in 17 people will develop dysphagia in their lifetime. Read on to find out if you or a loved one may be at risk.

WHAT MAKES DYSPHAGIA DANGEROUS?

The risks of dysphagia may seem obvious; however, they extend far beyond choking during mealtimes. Dysphagia can lead to malnutrition, weight loss, dehydration, aspirational pneumonia, and is a major factor in causing social isolation – coughing and choking during mealtimes can be an embarrassing experience.

WHO DOES DYSPHAGIA AFFECT?

Many people may not know they have dysphagia. It tends to affect older people much more often, including up to 66% in long-term care homes, up to 50% of those who have had a stroke, up to 75% of those with Alzheimer’s disease and up to 100% of people living with Parkinson’s disease.

WHY DO PEOPLE DEVELOP DYSPHAGIA?

There are many factors that may lead to dysphagia. The muscles we use for swallowing become weaker with age; this can lead to difficulty swallowing. Neurological problems (i.e. stroke) can cause damage to the nervous system. People can also experience inflammation of the mouth or throat due to cancer therapies, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and other conditions.

HOW DO I KNOW IF I OR SOMEONE I LOVE HAS DYSPHAGIA?

The signs and symptoms associated with dysphagia are diverse; however, consistently choking and coughing while eating or drinking are telltale symptoms. Dysphagia sufferers may also notice pain while swallowing, cut food into very small pieces or avoid certain foods that increase their risk of choking. After eating, they may experience pain or pressure in the chest, heartburn, and frequent respiratory infections. If someone displays the signs and symptoms of dysphagia, they should seek the help of a healthcare professional because effective strategies exist to manage dysphagia.

HOW CAN DYSPHAGIA BE MANAGED?

Dysphagia management strategies may include diet modification, musclestrengthening exercises, medications, and even surgical procedures. Texture-modified diet helps ensure that proper nutrition is delivered to the body. Your