Swallowing is a fundamental process essential for daily life, whether it is eating or drinking. However, for some people, “swallowing” becomes more difficult and dangerous than expected, especially in the elderly or patients with neurological diseases, who may be at risk of “dysphagia.” If left undiagnosed and untreated, it can lead to complications such as choking, pneumonia, or malnutrition.
What is Dysphagia?
Dysphagia is a condition where patients experience abnormalities or difficulty swallowing food, water, or even saliva. It can occur at any stage of the swallowing process, from the mouth, pharynx, or esophagus. This condition is not a disease itself but a symptom associated with other diseases or abnormalities, especially in the elderly or those with neurological and muscular disorders.
Causes of Dysphagia may result from abnormalities of muscles, nerves, or upper digestive tract structures, such as
- Stroke
- Parkinson’s disease or other central nervous system disorders
- Myasthenia Gravis
- Inflammation or cancer in the head, neck, or esophagus
- Injuries from surgery or accidents
Risk Groups to Watch Out For
- Elderly people, especially those with dementia or chronic diseases
- Patients with a history of hemiplegia or paralysis
- Those who have undergone surgery on the head, neck, or larynx
- Patients with oral, pharyngeal, or tongue cancer
- Patients with chronic swallowing problems due to neurological diseases
Warning Signs of Dysphagia
- Coughing or frequent choking after swallowing food
- Feeling pain or resistance while swallowing
- Food stuck in the throat or taking a long time to swallow completely
- Frequent choking while eating or drinking, especially liquids
- Frequent drooling or voice changes after swallowing
- Unexplained weight loss
Diagnosis of Dysphagia
With advanced and accurate technology, the evaluation of dysphagia requires specialized techniques using internationally standardized equipment, including
- Videofluoroscopic Swallowing Study (VFSS) Real-time moving X-ray examination of swallowing to observe muscle function and the movement of food through the throat and esophagus. A radiopaque substance mixed with food is swallowed in varying consistencies to allow doctors to clearly see the swallowing details. This is suitable for patients suspected of having dysphagia due to neurological or structural abnormalities.
- Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) Swallowing examination using an endoscope inserted through the nose without radiation, allowing observation of actual swallowing symptoms and analysis of food flow. This is suitable for patients with limitations in performing VFSS or those who need rapid swallowing assessment. It is appropriate for evaluating dysphagia in the elderly or patients with chronic diseases.
Rehabilitation and Treatment Approaches
After receiving evaluation results, the rehabilitation medical team will design a personalized swallowing rehabilitation plan using methods such as
- Swallowing muscle exercises (Swallowing Exercises)
- Swallowing posture training for safety and effectiveness
- Food texture modification to suit the swallowing ability level
- Use of swallowing aids such as special cups and specialized spoons
Expertise of the Treatment Team
The Rehabilitation Medicine and Physical Therapy Center at Phyathai 2 Hospital is fully equipped with personnel and equipment, with a multidisciplinary team consisting of
- Rehabilitation medicine specialists
- Physical therapists and occupational therapists
who collaboratively design appropriate rehabilitation programs at every stage of treatment under close supervision to help patients safely regain the ability to swallow, enjoy life, and improve their quality of life once again.
