Many people all over the world suffer from the side effects of dysphagia. It causes acid reflux, difficulty when swallowing, and also choking. Knowing the different treatments available can improve the overall well-being of people with this Illness. Keep reading to find out about some must-have products available to reduce the risks of dysphagia and make living with this ailment manageable.
Food Thickeners
Those suffering from symptoms of dysphagia may find it extremely difficult to swallow and keep down liquids with a thin consistency. Therefore, food thickeners are a fantastic way to help. Products such as Simply Thick are available at affordable prices and are quick and simple to use.
Strengthening Exercises
Another great option to treat dysphagia involves strengthening exercises through physical therapy. There are over 50 muscles and nerves used each time we swallow; if you have dysphagia, you can see a physician to strengthen these and learn new techniques when swallowing. Some of these exercises can be done at home conveniently. If you want to watch a tutorial on this type of treatment, follow this link.
Specific Diet Plans
It can be difficult to find interesting, delicious food that is suitable for someone living with dysphagia. Being aware of foods that may be a symptom trigger is crucial so that they can be avoided. This can hugely limit what goes on the shopping list and make mealtimes feel mundane. However, healthy, safe foods can vastly help those who have dysphagia so it’s vital to stick to a strict plan as part of your treatment. There are plenty of nutritious new recipes online and from your nutritionist.
Medication
A variety of medications are available to treat dysphagia. Doctors can prescribe tablets that are taken orally. When people with dysphagia take this type of medication, they are likely to require a food thickener to swallow them. These tablets can also be crushed up in a flavorful sauce or pudding such as custard to disguise any bitter tastes. Medics may also administer injections. These are injected into the gastroesophageal sphincter to help prevent spasms associated with the illness.
Homeopathic Remedies
For an alternative to prescribed medicine, there is a wide range of homeopathic treatments available. Holy Basil, Frankincense and Geranium are popular choices amongst these and are said to have soothing properties. Click here to find a list of natural remedies and information on how they work.
Surgery
In some cases, patients can receive surgery as part of their treatment. There are different types of surgical interventions available depending on the cause of the dysphagia. It is recommended that, following surgical treatment, physical therapy is undertaken. For further information on the different types of surgery used, click here.
When treating dysphagia, it is extremely important to choose the one that is right for the person. In every case, consulting with a doctor is essential before making any decisions. Support is always available for anyone struggling with the side effects of dysphagia.
