MODULE 1: METHODOLOGY AND TOOLS DEVELOPMENT FOR ADULT EDUCATORS

Due to a loss of appetite or discomfort when swallowing, people who have trouble swallowing generally lower their dietary quantity and diversity. The lack of attraction of crushed or pureed food is another reason why patients with swallowing issues limit their food intake. Colours that are too similar and flavors that are too unfamiliar may be some of the causes for your disinterest.

It's also worth noting that persons with dysphagia are more likely to have chronic conditions like cancer, Alzheimer's disease, stroke, or Parkinson's disease, all of which raise nutritional requirements.

All of these reasons could explain why patients with dysphagia are more likely to lose weight and become malnourished. Malnutrition can be as high as 40% in nursing homes for elderly individuals with dysphagia, according to research published in medical publications.

Complications of Oropharyngeal Dysphagia

Oropharyngeal dysphagia can range in severity from little difficulties to full inability to swallow. In older people, oropharyngeal dysphagia can cause two types of clinically significant complications: malnutrition and/or dehydration due to a decrease in deglutition efficacy, which can occur in up to 25%–75% of patients with dysphagia; and choking and tracheobronchial aspiration due to the obstruction of the airway.

Complications. Difficulty swallowing can lead to:

Malnutrition. Malnutrition can result from a reduction in oral eating due to swallowing difficulties.

Dehydration. Dehydration occurs when the body loses more water than it takes in, primarily from the intracellular volume (ICV).

Quality of Life. Dysphagia can lead to serious complications like pneumonia, dehydration, starvation, and even death. It has a negative impact on the patients' quality of life and mental health.

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