Dysphagia is a condition that affects the ability to swallow food and liquids normally. It can range in severity from mild to life-threatening, and the degree of severity can increase over time. In this article, we will discuss whether dysphagia can become more severe and what can be done to manage it.
Symptoms of Dysphagia
When experiencing dysphagia, people may have difficulty swallowing food or liquids, or both. Symptoms may include a feeling of food or liquid sticking in the throat, coughing or choking while eating or drinking, frequent heartburn, and pain in the chest or throat while eating or drinking. Other signs include weight loss, difficulty breathing, and nausea.
Is Dysphagia Becoming More Severe?
The severity of dysphagia can range from mild to life-threatening, and the degree of severity can increase over time. In some cases, dysphagia can become more severe due to age-related changes, underlying medical conditions, or even lifestyle choices. People with certain medical conditions, such as stroke or dementia, may be more likely to experience more severe forms of dysphagia. Additionally, lifestyle choices such as smoking and drinking alcohol can increase the risk of dysphagia becoming more severe.
What Can Be Done to Manage Dysphagia?
There are several steps that can be taken to manage dysphagia. People with dysphagia should avoid eating large meals and instead divide their food intake into smaller, more frequent meals. They should also avoid drinking large amounts of liquids at once. Eating and drinking slowly and chewing food thoroughly can also help. Additionally, there are certain foods that are easier to swallow, such as soft foods and pureed foods.
Finally, people with dysphagia should speak to their doctor about medications or other treatments that may be beneficial. For people who have difficulty swallowing due to age-related changes, physical therapy may help improve swallowing abilities. Additionally, speech-language pathologists may be able to provide advice on techniques and strategies for managing dysphagia.
In conclusion, dysphagia can become more severe over time due to age-related changes, underlying medical conditions, or lifestyle choices. It is important to speak to a doctor about the best ways to manage dysphagia and to make lifestyle changes that can help reduce the risk of the condition becoming more severe.