Difficulty Swallowing
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- Award Winning GI Specialist
What Is Difficulty Swallowing
Causes of Difficulty Swallowing
Brain disturbances
Muscle problems.
Achalasia
Diffuse esophageal spasms
Esophageal stricture
Blockages
Esophageal rings
Eosinophilic esophagitis
Frequent heartburn.
Radiation therapy
Symptoms of Difficulty Swallowing?
Frequent choking on food
It takes more than a few seconds to swallow
Pain when swallowing
Repeated pneumonia, which could mean food is going into the lungs rather than the esophagus
Diagnosis of Difficulty Swallowing?
Cineradiography
Upper endoscopy
Manometry
Impedance and pH test
Treatment of Difficulty Swallowing
Maintain a 90-degree upright seated position.
Tilt your head slightly forward.
Remain upright or standing for 15-20 minutes after meals.
Dining Environment:
Minimize distractions during mealtimes.
Focus on the act of eating and drinking.
Avoid talking with food in your mouth.
Consume food slowly.
Cut food into small pieces and chew thoroughly until liquefied in your mouth before swallowing.
Limit intake to no more than 1/2 teaspoon of food at a time.
Swallowing:
Two to three swallowing attempts per bite or sip may be necessary.
If food or liquid lodges in your throat, cough gently or clear your throat and swallow again before inhaling. Repeat as needed.
Maintain focus on deliberate swallowing throughout the process.
Maintain adequate hydration.
Suck on ice pops, ice chips, lemon ice, or lemon-flavored water to stimulate saliva production and increase swallowing frequency.
Avoid foods that are difficult to chew.
Puree food using a blender.
If thin liquids induce coughing, use a liquid thickener recommended by a speech pathologist. Substitute thicker liquids, like nectar for juice and cream soup for broth.
Medication Management:
Crush pills and mix them with applesauce or pudding.
Consult your pharmacist for guidance on medications that cannot be crushed and alternative liquid formulations.
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