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About
Dysphagia

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What is Dysphagia?

Dysphagia is defined as difficulty swallowing. It can include a variety of challenges that may impact eating and drinking. While dysphagia is typically more common in older adults, it has multiple causes that can affect people of all ages. Dysphagia can occur in varying degrees, from mild difficulties with swallowing certain foods or liquids, to the complete inability to swallow.



What causes dysphagia?

Dysphagia is often caused by an illness, medical condition or disease that affects the nerves and/or muscles in the tongue, mouth, and throat, and leads to problems coordinating and/or controlling a swallow. Click below for more detail on possible causes of dysphagia.

Swallowing difficulties can occur because of conditions such as stroke, dementia, neuromuscular and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis.

Dysphagia may have underlying mechanical causes. For example, abnormal growths or structural changes in the esophagus may cause dysphagia. In some cases, dysphagia can be caused by inflammation or chronic gastric reflux disorders.

Head and spinal cord injuries, as well as some head and neck cancers may cause dysphagia. Some people who are undergoing radiation therapy for head and neck cancer may also develop dysphagia.

The cause of dysphagia may differ for people of different age groups. For example, children may experience dysphagia if they have cerebral palsy or developmental disabilities. While in older adults, swallowing problems may be caused by other issues, such as dry mouth, weakness, dementia, and general frailty, including changes to nerve and muscle function with age.


What are the risks of having dysphagia?

Dysphagia can be a serious medical condition that may impact your health and quality of life in several ways.

Malnutrition and dehydration Impact on well-being Respiratory problems

If you have swallowing difficulties, you may be at risk of not eating or drinking enough. This may lead to malnutrition or dehydration. Malnutrition and dehydration can be serious problems that can lead to weight loss, weakness, an increased risk of falls, and a decreased ability to fight infections. Ultimately, malnutrition and dehydration may lead to a loss of independence for the individual.

Eating and drinking often play a significant role in making life enjoyable. They are a part of our day-to-day pleasures, but a large part of our social life, culture, and traditions center around eating and drinking. In some cases, dysphagia may lead to embarrassment, social isolation, and depression, which can result in eating and drinking less, and place a person at further risk of malnutrition and dehydration.

One of the most serious consequences of dysphagia is when the food or liquid goes down the “wrong way”, and into the airway. The medical term for this is “aspiration,” and in some cases it can lead to pneumonia or chest infections. Not everyone who "aspirates" food or liquid into their airway will develop pneumonia, however, there is an increased risk.

For more information on the risks of dysphagia, consult your healthcare professional. Click here to find a doctor & prepare for your visit.

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What is Dysphagia Signs & Symptoms Screening & Assessment

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Managing Swallowing
Difficulties: Mealtime Tips
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