The best treatment options for dysphagia will depend on the underlying cause. Some common treatments for dysphagia include:
- Diet modification: Making changes to the consistency and texture of foods can help to make swallowing easier. Your healthcare provider or a speech-language pathologist may recommend pureed or thickened liquids to make swallowing easier.
- Speech therapy: Speech therapy can help to improve swallowing muscles and techniques.
- Medications: Medications, such as proton pump inhibitors for acid reflux or muscle relaxants for muscle disorders, can help to relieve symptoms of dysphagia.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat the underlying cause of dysphagia, such as to remove a tumor or widen a narrow esophagus.
- Assistive devices: Assistive devices, such as a feeding tube, can be used to provide nutrition if eating and drinking become extremely difficult.
It’s important to address the underlying cause of dysphagia to effectively treat and manage the condition. If you are experiencing difficulty swallowing, it is recommended to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the best treatment options for your individual needs.
In addition, it’s important to maintain good oral and overall health by following a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding mouth irritants, such as tobacco and alcohol, which can worsen symptoms of dysphagia.