Dysphagia: causes and treatment
Every day we do it, usually unconsciously and unnoticed, but only when swallowing causes problems do we realize how important swallowing is. Dysphagia can not only be extremely annoying, but also dangerous. Here you will learn everything you should know.
Causes of difficulty swallowing
To swallowing, doctors speak of dysphagia, include both swallowing and swallowing disorders. Dysphagia are not an independent disease, but a symptomwhich has its origin in another disease.
The causes of dysphagia are manifold, as various organs and body regions are involved in the process of swallowing. It is important to know the cause for the right treatment of the swallowing disorder.
- Mouth and throat: The most common cause of dysphagia is the oropharyngeal area. These include the simple cold, the flu, accompanied by sore throat and coughing, but also tonsillitis, laryngitis, pharyngeal inflammation or an irritated mucous membrane of the throat. Also a fungal infection in the mouth or throat can cause problems with swallowing.
- reflux: Many people suffer from a disturbed function of the sphincter at the stomach entrance, which can lead to acid reflux through the esophagus and heartburn, so-called reflux. The stomach acid can cause dysphagia and swallowing pain.
- Thyroid: A mechanical cause that can disturb the swallowing process is an enlarged thyroid gland. In rare cases, dysphagia is caused by a tumor, but in most cases the thyroid gland is enlarged due to hypofunction due to iodine deficiency.
- tumors: Another mechanical trigger of dysphagia may be tumors in the esophagus, trachea or pharynx.
- Neurological diseases: Stroke, dementia, multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's disease can be responsible for chronic dysphagia. The swallowing process is no longer well controlled, it can even get food into the lungs, which in turn can lead to complications.
- Mental factors: In rare cases, the difficulty swallowing may be due to psychological problems.
- Allergic reaction: Swelling in the neck as a result of food allergies can cause a dysphagia.
- Chronic hiccup: The very rare chronic hiccup can lead to dysphagia.
Dysphagia and swallowing pain: When is a doctor's visit advisable?
You should definitely consult a doctor for advice if the dysphagia
- occurs suddenly and for no apparent reason.
- lasts longer.
- hinders food intake.
- was triggered by allergic reactions.
- of swelling in the mouth and throat is conditional.
- occurred after accidentally swallowing foreign bodies or chemicals.
Medicines and home remedies
In most cases, sore throats have their origin in colds or inflammation of the throat and throat area. This is how you can treat your swallowing pain:
- Crescent pills and lozenges: For sore throat, there are special lozenges in pharmacies. The soothing pills usually relieve your symptoms quickly. Here you can find more home remedies for sore throats.
- Saltwater: If the throat pills do not show the desired effect, you can resort to salt water. Dissolve a quarter teaspoon of salt in a glass of water and gargle with the mixture.
- Drink a lot: For sore throat and swallowing pain you should drink a lot, like warm tea or hot lemon.
- High humidity: Make sure there is sufficient humidification of the ambient air. You can distribute a few bowls of water in your apartment. The moist air ensures that your throat does not dry out, it helps to prevent dry mouth, soothes your sore throat and soothes your coughing sensation.
- Quiet: And as always, when you are not well, it means: Rest and avoid physical exertion.
What you can do against hoarseness, chronic cold and shivering, you will learn from us. And if you do not know if it's a flu or a cold, just read it here and find out.
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