Types of dysphagia
Dysphagia, can be caused by a variety of factors, including neurological disorders, structural abnormalities, and certain medications. There are two main types of dysphagia: oropharyngeal dysphagia and esophageal dysphagia. In this article, we will discuss the differences between these two types of dysphagia and their causes.
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| Types of dysphagia | Dysphagia & Speech Therapy |
Oropharyngeal Dysphagia
Oropharyngeal dysphagia is a
swallowing disorder that affects the mouth and throat. It occurs when there is
a problem with the coordination and strength of the muscles involved in
swallowing. This type of dysphagia can be caused by a variety of factors,
including:
Neurological disorders: Neurological disorders such as
Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and stroke can affect the muscles
involved in swallowing, leading to oropharyngeal dysphagia.
Structural abnormalities: Structural
abnormalities such as a cleft palate, tongue tie, or enlarged tonsils can make
it difficult to swallow properly.
Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy for head and neck
cancer can damage the muscles involved in swallowing, leading to oropharyngeal
dysphagia.
Medications: Certain medications, such as muscle
relaxants, can affect the muscles involved in swallowing, leading to
oropharyngeal dysphagia.
Symptoms of oropharyngeal dysphagia
include:
Difficulty starting a swallow
Coughing or choking while eating or
drinking
Gurgling or wet-sounding voice after
swallowing
Pain or discomfort while swallowing
Regurgitation of food or liquids
through the nose or mouth
Drooling or excessive saliva
Treatment for oropharyngeal dysphagia
may include speech therapy to improve muscle strength and coordination,
modified diets to make swallowing easier, and in some cases, surgery to correct
structural abnormalities.
Esophageal Dysphagia
Esophageal dysphagia is a swallowing
disorder that affects the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth
to the stomach. It occurs when there is a problem with the muscles or nerves in
the esophagus that prevent food from moving down to the stomach. This type of
dysphagia can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Gastroesophageal reflux disease
(GERD): GERD is a
condition where stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing irritation
and inflammation. This can lead to esophageal dysphagia.
Esophageal spasm: Esophageal spasms are abnormal contractions
of the muscles in the esophagus that can make it difficult to swallow.
Achalasia: Achalasia is a condition where the
muscles in the lower esophageal sphincter, the valve that separates the
esophagus from the stomach, do not relax properly, making it difficult for food
to pass through.
Tumors or strictures: Tumors or strictures in the
esophagus can narrow the passage and make it difficult for food to pass
through.
Symptoms of esophageal dysphagia
include:
A feeling of food getting stuck in
the chest or throat
Pain or discomfort when swallowing
Regurgitation of food or liquids
Coughing or choking when eating or
drinking
Heartburn or acid reflux
Treatment for esophageal dysphagia
may include medication to reduce acid reflux, surgery to remove tumors or
strictures, or dilation of the esophagus to widen the passage.
Conclusion
Dysphagia can significantly impact a person's quality of life and can even lead to malnutrition and dehydration if left untreated. It is important to identify the type of dysphagia a person is experiencing to determine the most effective treatment plan. Oropharyngeal dysphagia affects the muscles in the mouth and throat, while esophageal dysphagia affects the esophagus. Both types of dysphagia can be caused by a variety of factors, including neurological disorders, structural abnormalities, and certain medications. If you or a loved one is experiencing difficulty swallowing, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an evaluation and appropriate treatment. With proper management and support, many people with dysphagia can continue to enjoy a wide variety of foods and maintain a healthy diet.
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