
Dysphagia is a condition that makes swallowing difficult. It can cause discomfort, coughing, or choking, and may feel like something is stuck in the throat. Left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, , malnutrition, dehydration, or choking.
Signs of Dysphagia
Recognizing dysphagia early is crucial for preventing complications. Watch for these signs in your loved one (this is not a comprehensive list):
Pain when swallowing
Avoiding certain foods, liquids, or medications
Food or liquid coming out of the nose when swallowing
Unexplained weight loss
Teary eyes or a runny nose during or after eating
Avoiding meals in social settings
Frequent throat clearing
A wet, gurgly-sounding voice when eating or drinking
Shortness of breath while swallowing
Drooling during meals
Regurgitation of food or liquid through the throat, mouth, or nose
Causes of Dysphagia
Swallowing may seem simple, but it requires coordination of multiple muscles and nerves in the mouth and throat. Dysphagia occurs when these functions are impaired. Some conditions that affect the nerves and muscles involved in swallowing include:
Dementia
Parkinson’s Disease
Cerebral Palsy
Muscular Dystrophy
Cricopharyngeal Spasms
Other causes include physical obstructions or narrowing of the esophagus due to:
Esophageal cancer
Esophageal diverticulum
Although dysphagia is not a normal part of aging, the risk increases with age, especially in individuals over 80.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and may include:
Medication
Dietary Modifications (e.g., "softened, pureed, or thickened liquids")
In severe cases, Feeding Tubes or Procedures
Therapy: Working with a speech therapist to improve or restore swallowing ability. People with dementia who forget how to swallow can be retaught through therapy.
How Caregivers Can Help
Experts from Upstate University Hospital and UCLA offer the following advice to care for a loved one that has a hard time that shows signs or has Dysphagia:
1. Monitor for Symptoms
Pay close attention to changes in appetite and eating habits. If your loved one is struggling to eat or drink, consult a doctor. Encourage open communication about any discomfort they may be experiencing.
2. Adjust Meal Sizes and Frequency
If large meals are difficult to manage, serve smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day instead.
3. Encourage Proper Eating Posture
Avoid feeding someone while they are lying down. Ensure they sit upright during meals to prevent food or liquids from entering the windpipe.
4. Modify Food and Liquid Consistency
Pureed foods or soft-textured meals can make swallowing easier. Consult a doctor or dietitian for guidance on safe meal preparation while maintaining nutritional balance
5. Keep a Food and Hydration Journal
Record what and how much your loved one eats and drinks. This helps track nutritional intake and prevents dehydration.
6. Assist with Medication Intake
If swallowing pills is difficult, ask a doctor if they can be crushed, cut into smaller pieces, or substituted with a liquid, powder, or cream form.
Caring for an older adult with dysphagia requires patience and adaptation, but with the right approach, you can help them eat and drink safely while maintaining their health and quality of life.
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