Dysphagia is a medical term used to describe difficulty in swallowing. Although dysphagia can happen to any people from all walks of life, it is a more prevalent health concern among the senior group. You may wonder, “Why is this so?” Dysphagia is usually caused by a number of age-related health problems, such as stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and other forms of dementia.

DYSPHAGIA AND ITS CAUSES

Eating and swallowing difficulties among elders are typically caused by three things: osteophytes, saliva, and muscle weakness.

1. Osteophytes
   Seniors often develop bony protrusions on the inside of their spinal column. These protrusions are what we call as osteophytes. As they get bigger, they can push against the esophagus. As a result, swallowing food or liquor becomes difficult for seniors.
2. Less SalivaThe body changes as we age. One of the changes we undergo is that our body produces less saliva. It may seem like it is not a big deal, but it actually is. Saliva plays a vital role in the digestive process, specifically, it makes swallowing easier.
3. Muscle WeaknessThe muscles in our body weaken as we age. This is oftentimes due to being less engaged in physical activities. This can affect our facial muscles as well. When our facial muscles weaken, it makes hard for us to swallow.

DYSPHAGIA AND ITS WARNING SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

How can we know that our elderly loved one is suffering from dysphagia? You have probably experienced having trouble swallowing. It is normal. It can happen once in a while. But if difficulties in eating and swallowing become frequent, this could be a sign of dysphagia. Here are some other signs and symptoms that could indicate your elder has it:

• Choking after eating or drinking
• Feeling as if the food is stuck in the throat
• Drooling
• Chest discomfort during or after swallowing
• Coughing food back up after eating

If your elder is repeatedly experiencing these symptoms, we highly recommend that you talk with their healthcare professional about it.

DYSPHAGIA AND HOW IT AFFECTS SENIORS

Dysphagia can seriously affect seniors’ physical and mental health. It can cause the following:

1. MalnutritionDysphagia can cause elders to lose their appetite. Because it is difficult to swallow, they prefer to eat less or not eat at all.
2. DehydrationSwallowing does not only involve foods. It also includes drinking water.
3. Aspiration PneumoniaThe food or liquid enters the airway. This can result in lung infection (pneumonia).
4. Anxiety and DepressionPeople with dysphagia admit of being embarrassed with their condition. They choose to isolate themselves for fear that they will be ridiculed. This sometimes leads to anxiety and depression.

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

Dysphagia is a serious problem for elders. Here at Superior Health Care Providers, Inc., we understand that you are scared to watch your elderly suffer from such condition. Perhaps the best way for you to help them is to look for a Home Health Care provider that can cater to their needs.

Do you know a friend who is caring for their senior loved one? Share this blog with them!