Tips for Managing Dysphagia

Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, can be more than just an inconvenience — it can significantly affect your quality of life and nutritional health.

This condition may develop for various reasons, including neurological disorders, obstructions, or muscle dysfunction in the throat.

Understanding your symptoms is key, as they can range from mild difficulty with certain foods to a complete inability to swallow.

The ENT providers at Advanced Specialty Associates in Baxter and The Village at Mendota Heights, Minnesota, are dedicated to diagnosing and treating throat issues, including comprehensive care for dysphagia.

Keep reading to learn our top tips for managing this frustrating condition and how our practice can help. 

1. Stay hydrated

Staying well hydrated is essential for managing dysphagia. Drinking adequate fluids helps to thin secretions in the throat, making swallowing easier and more comfortable. 

Aim for six to eight glasses of water daily, but remember to sip slowly. If swallowing water is challenging, try using special thickeners available at pharmacies, which can make water easier to handle.

2. Modify your diet

Adjusting the texture and consistency of your food can significantly reduce swallowing difficulties. 

Start by incorporating softer, smoother foods, like yogurts, pureed fruits, and well-cooked vegetables. Avoid hard, sticky, or very dry foods that can be challenging to swallow.

It's also helpful to prepare smaller bites and chew your food thoroughly to aid the swallowing process.

3. Implement good eating habits

How you eat is just as important as what you eat when managing dysphagia. Take your time with meals, eating slowly and focusing on one small bite at a time. 

It’s helpful to eat in an upright position, sitting straight up for at least 30 minutes after eating, to help facilitate the movement of food down the throat.

Additionally, try to eat in a calm environment to reduce stress, which can make swallowing difficulties worse.

4. Complete swallowing exercises

Certain exercises can strengthen the muscles in your throat and improve your ability to swallow.

Speech and language therapists or ENT specialists like the team at Advanced Specialty Associates can guide you through targeted exercises designed to improve your swallowing mechanics.

These might include tongue presses, effortful swallows, or exercises to improve the range of motion of your jaw and neck. Consistent practice is key to seeing improvement.

5. Use assistive tools

For some people, assistive tools, like special cups or straws, can make drinking easier and more secure.

Specially designed utensils that control food flow can also help manage liquid intake and prevent choking.

Our team at Advanced Specialty Associates can recommend devices that align with your specific swallowing challenges.

6. Try over-the-counter (OTC) medications

In cases where dysphagia is caused by underlying conditions, such as acid reflux or allergies, medications might be necessary.

Antacids, antihistamines, or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can reduce symptoms that contribute to swallowing difficulties.

Always consult with an ENT specialist at our practice before starting any new medication to make sure it’s right for your situation.

7. Consider professional help

If lifestyle changes and home remedies aren’t enough to manage your dysphagia effectively, it’s important to seek professional help. 

At Advanced Specialty Associates, our ENT experts offer a range of diagnostic tests and personalized dysphagia treatments that can provide more substantial relief. These may include:

• Endoscopic evaluation to visually inspect your throat and esophagus for any structural problems or blockages
• Manometry to assess the pressure and muscle function in your esophagus
• Physical or speech therapy for specific techniques that improve your ability to swallow

Chronic dysphagia can significantly affect your nutrition and overall quality of life, but with the right strategies and support, it can be managed effectively. 

Our team at Advanced Specialty Associates in Baxter or The Village at Mendota Heights, Minnesota, is here to help. So if you’re struggling with swallowing difficulties, don’t wait to schedule an assessment and find out the best treatment options for you.