Unit 1 - Dysphagia

Lesson 1.1 Dysphagia

1.1.4. Health consequences - Security Complication: Choke, Obstruction, Respiratory Infections, including Aspiration Pneumonia

Consequences of dysphagia include malnutrition and dehydration, aspiration pneumonia, compromised general health, chronic lung disease, choking and even death. 

Adults with dysphagia may also experience disinterest, reduced enjoyment, embarrassment, and/or isolation related to eating or drinking. 

Dysphagia may increase caregiver costs and burden and may require significant lifestyle alterations for the patient and the patient’s family. It is necessary an interprofessional team to diagnose and manage oral and pharyngeal dysphagia. 

Some people have dysphagia and are unaware of it — in these cases, it may go undiagnosed and not be treated, raising the risk security and efficacy complications.

Complications: difficulty swallowing can lead to:

  1. Aspiration Pneumonia:

Aspiration pneumonia is a type of lung infection caused by a substantial amount of debris entering the lungs via the stomach or mouth.

  1. Obstruction:

Swallowing can be made difficult by conditions that cause a blockage in the throat or a constriction of the esophagus (the tube that transports food from your mouth to your stomach).

  1. Choking:

Choking can happen when food becomes caught in the throat. Death can occur if food fully plugs the airway and no one intervenes with a successful Heimlich maneuver.