A swallowing disorder can be a life-changing medical concern and is an issue that can cause further health complications.

The ability to treat a swallowing disorder will depend on the reason or reasons that this issue has presented.

Finding an effective treatment can make all the difference to a patient’s life. There will be a cure for some patients, whereas others will only be able to find ways to manage the severity of the symptoms.

What is a Swallowing Disorder?

Known medically as dysphagia, swallowing disorders may present for different reasons.

Patients with serious health conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and cancer of the mouth or throat, are likely to develop problems with swallowing. This is also a common issue for stroke survivors and for those with certain brain injuries.

At the most extreme end of the scale, a swallowing disorder can make the process of swallowing impossible, whereas, for others, it may simply become more difficult to do so.

Treating Dysphagia

As with many health complaints, treatment of this condition is varied and is specific to the reason that dysphagia has occurred.

If you have a blockage of the esophagus, such as a tumor, then surgery might be required to remove it. Surgery may also be a necessary cause of action to address muscular problems of the esophagus if this is the cause of the issue.

If the esophagus has narrowed for any reason, then dilation can be an effective treatment option. This involves using a device to gently widen affected areas in the throat. Dilation may be required regularly in order to keep the problem at bay.

Help with Eating and Drinking

Finding ways to continue eating and drinking is key to combating swallowing disorders. Not being able to consume food and liquids normally can quickly impact nutrition and cause weight loss. Both of these issues can have more serious knock-on effects.

SimplyThick gels may be utilized to thicken liquids, thereby making them easier to swallow. Additionally, different therapies can help patients to improve swallowing techniques, thereby decreasing the need for medical intervention.

In more extreme cases, a patient may find tube feeding to be a better solution.

Although tube feeding does sound drastic, it is actually a standard procedure and is a process that the patient can sometimes manage themselves at home.

Tube feeding may be temporary or permanent, depending on the needs of the individual patient.

Medication Options

If a swallowing disorder is related to a medical condition, such as heartburn or problems with stomach acid, the medications can prove effective.

Dysphagia might also be caused by an infection in the esophagus, and this is a problem that can be treated with antibiotic medications.

Quality of Life

It is still possible to have a long and fulfilling life when you are affected by dysphagia. By managing your symptoms through treatment, you can ensure your condition does not keep you from living your life.

If you are having trouble adjusting to living with this condition, you will find a support group near you or online for additional help.

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Swallowing Disorders