Dysphagia is the medical term for difficulty swallowing. It can make eating, drinking, and taking medicines uncomfortable or even dangerous. Swallowing problems may happen at the level of the mouth and throat (oropharyngeal dysphagia) or in the food pipe, also called the oesophagus (oesophageal dysphagia).
In Uganda, recognising and addressing dysphagia is very important. Difficulty swallowing can lead to dehydration, malnutrition, or lung infections if food or liquids accidentally enter the airways. Quick attention from a healthcare professional can prevent these complications and make daily life safer and more comfortable.
Hope Plus can support patients experiencing swallowing difficulties by connecting them with a licensed healthcare provider for a consultation in minutes. Through this service, you can discuss symptoms, receive guidance, and get referred for the right tests or treatments without waiting for long hospital queues. Learn more at Hope Plus.
Key Takeaways
- Dysphagia is difficulty swallowing and can affect the throat or food pipe.
- Causes include neurological problems, muscle diseases, infections, structural changes, tumours, or acid reflux.
- Complications can include malnutrition, dehydration, lung infections, and choking.
- Healthcare providers use tests like swallowing assessments and endoscopy to diagnose dysphagia.
- Treatment focuses on rehydration, nutrition support, and addressing the underlying cause.
Causes of Dysphagia
Oropharyngeal Dysphagia (Throat and Mouth)
This type happens when the muscles or nerves controlling swallowing are affected. Causes may include:
- Neurological problems: Stroke, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, brain injuries, or tumours.
- Muscle diseases: Connective tissue disorders, sarcoidosis, or dermatomyositis.
- Structural issues: Growths or pouches in the throat, webs, or bone changes.
- Infections: Syphilis, botulism, rabies, or mouth inflammation (mucositis).
- Metabolic conditions: Thyroid problems, Cushing’s syndrome, or Wilson’s disease.
- Medical treatments or procedures: Chemotherapy, certain psychiatric medicines, surgery, or radiation.
Oesophageal Dysphagia (Food Pipe)
This type occurs when the food pipe is narrowed or does not move food properly. Causes may include:
- Tumours: Cancer of the oesophagus.
- Inflammation: Acid reflux, fungal infections (candidiasis), or irritation from some medications.
- Compression from outside: Enlarged lymph nodes or tumours pressing on the oesophagus.
- Movement problems: Conditions like achalasia, scleroderma, or oesophageal spasms.
Symptoms Patients May Notice
- Trouble starting to swallow or needing to swallow several times.
- Food or liquid coming back through the nose.
- Coughing, drooling, or nasal-sounding speech.
- Choking, sometimes without coughing.
- Bad breath, especially if food or liquid stays in the throat.
- Recurrent chest infections or pneumonia.
- Additional symptoms depending on the cause, such as neurological changes or weight loss.
How Dysphagia is Diagnosed
Healthcare providers may:
- Take a detailed medical history and examine you physically.
- Perform a timed water swallow test, sometimes using food.
- Conduct an endoscopy to look inside the throat and oesophagus.
- Order tests for infections, blood sugar, and electrolytes if needed.
Treatment and Management
- Hydration: Fluids may be given through a drip if swallowing is too difficult.
- Nutrition support: Energy and nutrients are provided to prevent malnutrition.
- Treating the underlying cause: For example, medicines for infections or addressing reflux.
- Referral: Patients may be referred to specialists for further care, such as ENT, gastroenterology, or speech therapy.
Following these steps helps reduce the risk of complications and improves quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can dysphagia be cured?
It depends on the cause. Some problems, like infections or reflux, can be treated completely, while neurological or structural conditions may require ongoing management.
2. Is difficulty swallowing dangerous?
Yes, especially if it causes choking, malnutrition, dehydration, or lung infections. Early medical attention is important.
3. What should I do if I start coughing or choking while eating?
Stop eating, stay upright, and try to clear your throat. Seek medical care immediately if it happens often.
4. Can medicines help with dysphagia?
Yes, but treatment depends on the cause. Some patients receive antifungal medicines, acid reflux treatments, or medications to help the oesophagus move food better.
5. How can I make swallowing easier at home?
Eating soft foods, taking small bites, chewing well, and sitting upright while eating can help. A healthcare provider may suggest more specific techniques.
6. Do I need tests to confirm dysphagia?
Yes. Tests like swallowing assessments and endoscopy help healthcare providers understand the cause and plan treatment.
7. Can Hope Plus help with dysphagia?
Yes. Through Hope Plus, you can quickly consult a licensed healthcare provider who can guide you on tests, treatment, and referrals.
