Dysphagia refers to a variety of issues with swallowing. Unfortunately, if you or a loved one are suffering from this condition, it could have an impact on your health and well-being. Fortunately, by working with a doctor, it may be possible to address the issue and mitigate the symptoms. Dr. Todd Eisner, Dr. Theodore Doukides, and Dr. Stephen Miller at Gastroenterology Consultants of Boca Raton can help if you’re suffering from dysphagia in Delray Beach and Boca Raton, FL.
When someone suffers from dysphagia, they may struggle to swallow certain foods or liquids. In some cases, the issues may be limited to specific foods or liquids. Some folks can swallow the foods in question but will then cough or vomit them back up. A person may also suffer from excessive drooling. Some people struggle with swallowing pretty much any food or liquid.
The good news is that dysphagia is often treatable. The specific treatment, however, will depend on the root cause of the condition. Below, you can learn more about the common causes of dysphagia.
Common Causes of Dysphagia
Often, dysphagia is the result of another medical condition. For example, if you’re suffering from cancer in the mouth or oesophageal cancer, it could lead to issues with swallowing. Likewise, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which causes acid from the stomach to make its way into your throat, can also result in difficulties with swallowing.
Head injuries, strokes, and similar conditions can result in dysphagia. The condition may also be psychological, perhaps due to a fear or dislike of certain things, like medications or specific foods. Various other circumstances could lead to challenges with swallowing.
Are you struggling with dysphagia, and do you live near Delray Beach and Boca Raton, FL? Stop by Gastroenterology Consultants of Boca Raton. Dr. Eisner, Dr. Doukides, and Dr. Miller can assist.
How Dysphagia is Treated
Often, speech and language therapy techniques are used to impart new swallowing techniques. The right adjustments may help you overcome dysphagia. Such therapy may require a lot of training to fully work. If your swallowing issues are caused by an overbite, underbite, or another structure problem, braces and the like may be needed. Surgery may also help.
Lifestyle changes can also help, especially in the short term. By changing the consistency of a food or cutting it into smaller pieces, you may be able to make it easier to swallow. In some cases, you may need to use an alternative form of eating, such as a feeding tube.
If you or a loved one are experiencing dysphagia and you live near Delray Beach or Boca Raton, FL, dial (561) 368-3455 to reach Gastroenterology Consultants of Boca Raton. You can talk things through withDrs. Todd Eisner, Theodore Doukides, and Stephen Miller.