The swallowing process begins in the mouth and ends when food or liquids arrive in the stomach. Dysphagia, or swallowing difficulties, can be a result from conditions that affect any point along this path.
Some people with dysphagia experience trouble and pain swallowing foods, liquids and even their own saliva. Occasional difficulty when swallowing may be caused by eating too fast or not chewing food enough. However, those who experience persistent difficulty swallowing should seek treatment, as underlying medical conditions may exist.
Difficulty swallowing can occur at any age due to a variety of causes, however, it is more prevalent among older adults. The following are common symptoms associated with dysphagia:
• Pain while swallowing
• Not being able to swallow
• Sensation of food getting stuck in your throat or chest, or behind your breastbone (sternum)
• Drooling
• Hoarseness
• Bringing food back up (regurgitation)
• Frequent heartburn
• Food or stomach acid backing up into your throat
• Unexpected weight loss
• Coughing or gagging when swallowing
Treatment options also vary depending on the cause of the dysphagia and can include surgery, therapy, and/or medication. Marion Regional Healthcare System is equipped with a Digital Swallowing Workstation, which includes Fiber optic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES). The FEES procedure allows a speech pathologist to view the actual structures associated with swallowing without requiring radiation or sedation. A Modified Barium Swallow (MBS) Study is also used to help diagnose dysphagia, and is performed at Marion Regional Healthcare System as well. Results from these diagnostic techniques are used to determine the source of the problem and develop a plan of treatment.
To determine if FEES or a MBS can help you, contact your primary care physician, or the Speech Pathology Department at Marion Regional Healthcare System for more information or to set up an appointment.
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement