Dysphasia can lead to a person becoming malnourished and dehydrated. Their quality of life can also be affected, and serious complications may arise. Patients frequently work with a speech-language therapist to manage their condition and reduce the risk of these complications.
The speech-language therapist may recommend using thickening solutions from SimplyThick to minimize the individual’s risk of aspiration pneumonia. Using these products can also help reduce a person’s fear of choking while eating. What should a person know about this condition, and how can they treat it?
Dysphagia Causes
Several factors may contribute to a diagnosis of dysphasia. Damage to the nervous system can lead to swallowing difficulties, and a person with certain types of cancer is at higher risk of receiving this diagnosis. Some individuals only struggle with dysphagia for a short period, such as when they are recovering from a stroke or other major illness. Other individuals, however, will live with this condition for the rest of their lives.
Dysphagia Symptoms
Individuals who frequently cough or choke while eating may have dysphagia. Dribbling is commonly seen with this condition, and some people store food in their mouths. Men and women may avoid mealtimes because they are embarrassed by these symptoms, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies and other health issues.
Complications of Dysphagia
Dysphasia often comes with complications. Individuals with this condition usually spend 40% longer in the hospital than their peers without dysphasia. They may also experience complications related to prolonged hospital stays, such as hospital-acquired infections. Any person with dysphagia must also take care when eating to reduce the risk of aspiration pneumonia.
The Use of Thickening Agents in Managing Dysphagia
Speech-language pathologists often recommend adding thickening agents to foods and beverages to make them easier for individuals with dysphagia to swallow. When using these thickeners, the goal is to keep the food and drink as close to normal as possible. Overthickening is always a concern when these products are used, so caregivers and others preparing food for these individuals should know exactly how thick to make the items.
Thickening food and beverages reduces the risk of them going down the wrong way. They are less likely to enter the lungs. When food or drink enters the lungs, the person will likely cough and choke. The concern is that they may not do so. If they silently inhale the food or fluid, others may not realize they are in distress.
Why is it so essential to prevent food and beverages from entering the lungs? When either food or drink enters the lungs, the person may develop aspiration pneumonia. This pneumonia can lead to severe complications and possibly death.
Dysphasia also comes with emotional impacts. A person may avoid mealtime because they are scared of choking. They are at an increased risk of malnutrition and dehydration if they begin skipping meals and beverages. Thickening their food and drinks will allow them to enjoy mealtime once again. The use of these products allows them to take control of their health.
Which Consistency is Best?
One challenge people with dysphasia encounter is that others have different perceptions of texture and thickness. To ensure consistency, the International Dysphasia Diet Standardization Initiative was created in 2013. The use of this initiative provides a consistent texture for foods and fluids. Thickeners are only beneficial when used correctly, and this initiative helps ensure that they are.
Thickening solutions are an essential part of a holistic approach to dysphagia treatment. Other steps should also be taken in conjunction with the use of these thickeners. The patient may need to undergo lifestyle changes and receive therapy to ensure the highest quality of life. Their medical team will help determine the best steps to control their condition. When everyone works together, managing this condition becomes easier.
