The simplest definition of dysphagia is "difficulty swallowing" and this is also the primary symptom of the disorder. However, the causes, symptoms and treatments for dysphagia are considerably more complex than the dictionary definition suggests. The question, "What is dysphagia?" is best answered by a trained practitioner, but a general understanding of the disease will help you make a more informed decision about what sort of treatment you should seek.
Types of Dysphagia
There are two types of Dysphagia:
- Oropharyngeal dysphagia (or high dysphagia). In this type of dysphagia, the problem arises in the mouth and/or throat. This is a neurological disorder and is the more difficult type of dysphagia to treat.
- Oesophageal dysphagia (or low dysphagia). In this case, the problem lies in the oesophagus. In many cases, this is caused by a blockage, restriction or irritation. Minor cases of this type of dysphagia can be easily treated, but occasionally surgery is required.
Symptoms of Dysphagia
While difficulty when trying to swallow is the primary symptom of dysphagia, this can be experienced in several different ways:
- Sometimes, a choking sensation is experienced, followed by heavy coughing. This is due to saliva trickling into the lungs.
- When attempting to swallow, food or liquid may be regurgitated through the nose.
- Breathing in rather than swallowing food is an occasional symptom of dysphagia.
- Sore throat when attempting to swallow.
- A sensation that something is stuck in your throat.
Additional symptoms that are symptoms of dysphagia but may or may not occur when attempting to swallow include:
- Frequent belching.
- Chest pains.
- Acid reflux, which is felt as a burning sensation in the throat.
- Difficulty moving the tongue.
- Uncontrollable drooling.
Any of the symptoms of dysphagia should be taken seriously and a medical specialist should be consulted. Some of the symptoms are also symptoms of serious illnesses that may need conventional or natural treatment.
Disorders Associated with Dysphagia
Dysphagia can occur at any time and if it does not return or become chronic, may not be cause for concern. If it is chronic or severe, however, early diagnosis is called for. Some of the causes of dysphagia include:
- Aging is a common cause of dysphagia.
- Motor neuron disease is an incurable disease that affects the body's ability to function.
- Stroke victims frequently experience many of the symptoms of dysphagia.
- GERD (Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease), also called oesophagitis, is an inflammation of the oesophagus due to acid reflux from the stomach. In severe cases, scarring can occur, leading to the necessity for surgery.
- Benign or malignant tumours in the oesophagus.
There are many others as well, but these are some of the more common ones.
Treatments for Dysphagia
Many experts agree that the best treatments for oropharyngeal dysphagia are natural treatments. These include:
- Swallowing therapy, which is taught by a trained speak therapist, who can often teach the patient how to retrain the muscles used for swallowing.
- A dietician can provide valuable nutritional advice, helping sufferers find the right soft-textured foods to supply the body with essential nutrients their condition might otherwise make them go without.
- A herbalist can recommend many easily ingested herbal remedies that may boost the immune system, reduce excess stomach acid, aid digestion and/or reduce acid reflux.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners may have effective treatments for dysphagia.
Smoking, excess alcohol consumption and other unhealthy eating habits can aggravate existing dysphagia or help cause it to occur. As with any disease, "prevention is the best cure." Enjoy a healthy lifestyle that includes plenty of exercise, a good diet and stress management and you will minimise the risk of most preventable diseases.
Originally published on Nov 18, 2011
