Assistance with Dysphagia: Friendly Guide to Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment
Difficulty in swallowing is frightening. But you're not alone. Dysphagia is a problem that many individuals in Houston, as well as the country, face. At GastroDoxs we have come to assist in making eating comfortable and safe (again)! This guide provides information on what is dysphagia, its etiology and what you can do about it. We also will tell you about treatments, taking long-term care and working towards a cure in case a cure is possible. Dr. Bharat Pothuri, our Houston-based board-certified gastroenterologist, offers his professional opinion in the course of the show.
What is Dysphagia?
Dysphagia is a condition that is characterized by difficulty in swallowing food or water. It may be as though food gets stuck at the throat or chest. You can also cough, choke or even experience burning of the meals. The process of swallowing is complicated. It entails nerves and muscles and your brain collaborating. When any component of the system is not functioning, it may be hard to swallow.
Dr. Pothuri says: Dysphagia means difficulty swallowing, and it should not be ignored when it continues, worsens, or happens with pain, choking, weight loss, or food feeling stuck. A proper diagnosis allows us to guide the right treatment plan safely.
The relevance of Dysphagia in Houston
- The food is very spicy and bold, which may irritate the sensitive throat of Houston.
- Acid reflux is also a frequent cause of dysphagia that may exacerbate by humid weather.
- In GastroDoxs, we offer localised, personalised treatment of difficulties in swallowing.
Quick Facts
- Approximately 13 percent of individuals above 65 years are dysphagic.
- Early intervention is better than late intervention.
- Combination of diet, therapy, and medicine usually managed the symptoms.
Causes of Dysphagia
Trouble can be caused by many things and swallowing is one of them. There are short-term ones and long-lasting ones.
Common causes include:
- Neurological conditions
- Stroke
- Parkinson's disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Structural problems
- Esophageal narrowing
- Throat or esophagus tumor
- Hiatal hernia
- Muscle diseases
- Myasthenia gravis
- Muscular dystrophy
- Acid reflux (GERD)
- Reflux may cause scarring of the esophagus in the long-term
- Aging
- The muscles degenerate and the nerves become sluggish
The first solution, says Dr. Pothuri, is finding the cause. Then we develop a care plan that will suit you.
Signs and Symptoms
See your doctor if you have:
- Difficulties swallowing or choking and difficulties in swallowing food or beverages.
- Sticky food that gets stuck in your throat or your chest.
- Back flow of food or liquids.
- Recurring light lung infections or pneumonia.
- Involuntary loss of weight or dehydration.
- Shying off food due to its discomfort.
When to See a Doctor
Don't delay. The earlier we treat you, the better. Call a doctor if:
- Without coughing you can not swallow liquids.
- Suddenly you lose over 5 percent of your body weight.
- After eating you become infected on the chest.
Diagnosis of Dysphagia by Doctors
Your doctor may:
- Inquire about your previous health history.
- Examine your throat
- Order tests such as:
- Video Fluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS)
Demonstrates the flow of the food during the swallowing. - Endoscopy (EGD)
Camera checks your throat, esophagus and stomach. - Manometry
Feels the esophagus and the skin over the esophagus. - pH Monitoring
Measures stomach acid to measure reflux.
- Video Fluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS)
Treatment for Dysphagia
The plan of what to do to you depends on what causes your symptoms. GastroDoxs in Houston customizes each plan.
1. Swallowing Therapy
- Chairs a speech-language pathologist (SLP)
- Physical activities that help to build muscles
- Safe swallowing instructions and posture
2. Diet Changes
- Pureed or soft foods
- Thickened liquids
- Stick to soft, wet, dry or dry things
3. Medications
- In the case of acid reflux (such as omeprazole)
- Muscle relaxants
- Other nerve/muscle drugs
4. Endoscopic or Surgical Options
- Stretching narrowed areas
- Removing tumors
- Surgery for severe reflux
There are patients that require basic modifications. Some require more intricate treatment as discussed by Dr. Pothuri. We show every individual one step at the time.
Can Dysphagia Be Cured?
Not all of them can be cured completely. Yet the vast majority of the patients become better. Key steps include:
- Corrections to deal with the cause, such as reflux
- Performing daily swallowing activities
- Sticking to a safe diet
- Taking special cups or spoons where necessary
Treatment of Dysphagia-Long-Term
Good management assists you to live good lives in the daily life. A strong plan includes:
- Frequent visits to your physician or SLP
- Discarding your weight and hydration
- Eating appropriately when necessary
- Exercising to maintain muscles
Treatment Options: An Overview
| Option | What It Is | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swallowing Therapy | Exercises with SLP | Strengthens; is not invasive | Time and effort consuming |
| Diet Modifications | Food changes in texture | Easy to initiate; quite safe | Restrictive to food intake |
| Medications | Reflux or muscle control | Cause; easy to manipulate | Might produce side effects |
| Surgery/Endoscopy | Repair of problems | Quick in a couple cases | large operation requires healing |
What is the point of visiting an expert in Houston?
At GastroDoxs, it is easy to get expert care:
- On-site treatment and testing
- SI and GI specialists under a single roof
- Easy scheduling and support
- We have received most insurance plans
According to Dr. Pothuri, swallowing problems involve the way one eats, talks and feels. Helping you can make your life better.
Tips for Easier Swallowing
- Take small bites and sips
- Sit up straight for meals
- Chew slowly and well
- They probably have thickeners as per your SLP
- Swallowing swallow with a little tucking of the chin
Self-Care and Prevention
Always be on your guard, even where you are better:
- Use healthy practices to run reflux
- Drink plenty of water
- Remain active to make muscles strong
Resources and Support
- Support group Houston Dysphagia Support Group
- GastroDoxs patient portal to monitor your progress
- ASHA.org In depth: swallowing therapy
Conclusion
Dysphagia may be stressful, but it does not have to experience it alone. Eating is back with the proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
The specialists of GastroDoxs in Houston will assist you whether you need dysphagia treatment, or long term symptom management. We should start that first step.
