Dysphagia

Dysphagia

            Dysphagia refers to difficulty in swallowing which can be brought about by several factors and disease conditions. ^[1] The condition can occur on any age group. Treatment depends on the underlying course. ^[2]

Causes

            Swallowing requires complex course of action. The causes of dysphagia are so many but the problem can boil down into either the nerves or the muscles or a physical obstruction. The muscles and nerves can be affected when a person had a stroke or suffered from an incident that caused injury to the brain or the spinal cord, an ailment that involves the nervous system such as multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease, a disease affecting the immune system like polymyositis or when the person has conditions called esophageal spasm or scleroderma. On the other hand, masses like tumors and bone spurs and diverticula may lead to physical obstruction resulting to dysphagia. The esophagus can also become narrower in Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Other causes of dysphagia are esophagitis and achalasia. ^[3]

Symptoms

            When there is neurological involvement, there can be difficulty starting the swallowing movements. Sometimes the patient may complain that the food seems to be sticking in the throat so that coughing or choking may ensue.

            In some cases, the patient feels that a lot of food have been eaten already when in fact only a small amount have been consumed. There is inability to take in larger quantities of food which could result to weight loss. With other disorders, patient may complain of chest pain similar to a heart attack. ^[4]

Diagnosis

            A medical history is important to analyze further the symptoms experienced by the patient. A physical examination is then performed to check for reflexes, speech and muscle strength. Laboratory exams that may be done include x-rays, barium swallow, esophagoscopy, fluoroscopy, manometry, pH monitoring and laryngoscopy. ^[3]

Treatment

            Treatment depends on the cause. Exercises for muscles involved in swallowing may be advised. If GERD and esophagitis are determined as cause, medicines are prescribed. Physical obstruction such as tumor may require surgical procedures. ^{[2] [4]}

References:

1.      http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Dysphagia/Pages/definition.aspx

2.      http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/difficulty-swallowing/DS00523

3.      http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/tc/difficulty-swallowing-dysphagia-overview

4.      http://www.medicinenet.com/swallowing/page5.htm#what_are_the_symptoms_of_dysphagia

Public Discussion