Swallowing is a function we often take for granted. However, for many people, this natural function becomes a challenge. Dysphagia / Swallowing Disorder , also known as dysphagia, can significantly impair daily life. It frequently occurs after neurological conditions such as a Stroke , as well as in neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's.
In this article, we would like to give an overview of what Dysphagia / Swallowing Disorder is, what causes it, and how we treat dysphagia in our Clinic .
Dysphagia refers to a Dysphagia / Swallowing Disorder . Normally, swallowing is effortless and unconscious, but it can be disrupted by neurological impairments. Several muscle groups work together to safely transport food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach. Affected individuals may have difficulty eating or drinking. The swallowing process can become unsafe, irregular, or even dangerous if liquids or food enter the airways and obstruct them.
The swallowing process is a finely tuned interplay of muscles and nerves in the mouth and throat. Disruptions to this system can lead to difficulties in chewing food sufficiently or swallowing it safely. The causes of Dysphagia / Swallowing Disorder are varied. They often occur as a consequence of neurological diseases, such as:
Dysphagia / Swallowing Disorder often manifests as the sensation of food or liquid getting stuck in the throat, frequent gagging, coughing during or after eating, and recurrent pneumonia.
The Diagnosis is carried out by our speech therapists using special tests such as fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES). This allows a visual examination of the anatomy and function of the swallowing process, especially of the pharynx and larynx.
The greatest risk associated with dysphagia is aspiration, the entry of food or liquid into the airways. Depending on the severity, this can lead to pneumonia or life-threatening airway obstruction. Furthermore, malnutrition and dehydration are common consequences, as those affected often eat and drink less to avoid swallowing difficulties.
In our Clinic , we work in an interdisciplinary team to diagnose and treat affected individuals early so that their swallowing ability is fully restored or improved.
Speech Therapy is a central component of our approach. Using specific exercises, we target and train the muscles responsible for swallowing, helping patients to manage their Dysphagia / Swallowing Disorder more confidently.
Dietary adjustments are an essential part of treatment. Our nutritionists determine the required food consistency based on the IDDSI (International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative) criteria. Depending on the severity of the Dysphagia / Swallowing Disorder it may be necessary to thicken or puree foods and liquids to facilitate swallowing and reduce the risk of choking. In more severe cases, when oral admission is severely restricted, temporary feeding via a nasogastric tube may be required.
