Dysphagia (swallowing problems)

About dysphagia

Dysphagia is the medical term for swallowing difficulties.

Some people with dysphagia have problems swallowing certain foods or liquids, while others can’t swallow at all.

Other signs of dysphagia include:

coughing or choking when eating or drinking
bringing food back up, sometimes through the nose
a sensation that food is stuck in your throat or chest
persistent drooling of saliva
Over time, dysphagia can also cause symptoms such as weight loss and repeated chest infections.

You should see Al Hawas Rehabilitation Of Hearing & Speech Center if you have swallowing difficulties.

Complications of dysphagia

Dysphagia can sometimes lead to further problems. One of the most common problems is coughing or choking when food goes down the “wrong way” and blocks your airway.

If this occurs frequently, you may avoid eating and drinking because you fear choking, which can lead to malnutrition and dehydration.

Some people with dysphagia have a tendency to develop chest infections, such as aspiration pneumonia, which require medical treatment.

Dysphagia can also affect your quality of life as it may prevent you enjoying meals and social occasions.