Dysphagia specialist near me
Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.
Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Dysphagia (swallowing problems) treatment
Recommended health tests for Dysphagia (swallowing problems)
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
How it works
Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.
Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.
Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.
Learn about Dysphagia (swallowing problems)
Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is a condition that affects the muscular and nervous systems that help move food and liquid from your mouth to your stomach. It can range from being mildly inconvenient to severely impairing one’s quality of life. Dysphagia is more common among older adults but can occur at any age. Its prevalence, according to some studies, suggests that it affects about 1 in 25 adults annually, though the numbers could be higher due to underreporting.
Causes
Dysphagia can result from a variety of causes, spanning neurological disorders, such as a stroke or Parkinson’s disease, to physical blockages and muscle dysfunction. Conditions that cause inflammation or scarring of the esophagus, such as acid reflux or esophagitis, can also lead to difficulty swallowing. In some cases, dysphagia is a consequence of congenital abnormalities or develops as a complication of surgeries that affect the throat or esophagus.
Signs and symptoms
- Pain while swallowing - The sensation of food being stuck in the throat or chest - Drooling - Hoarseness - Regurgitation of food - Frequent heartburn - Unexpected weight loss - Coughing or gagging when swallowing
Diagnosing Dysphagia (swallowing problems)
The process to diagnose dysphagia generally starts with a detailed medical history and a physical examination. Healthcare providers may also utilize various tests to determine the cause and severity, such as a barium swallow test (where X-rays are taken after swallowing a barium solution), esophagoscopy (inspection of the esophagus), manometry (measuring the rhythm and strength of esophagus contractions), and others. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
Prevention and natural treatment
Preventing dysphagia largely involves managing risk factors and underlying conditions that may lead to the disorder. For instance, controlling acid reflux or avoiding activities that may lead to throat injuries can be proactive measures. Treatment varies greatly depending on the cause but often includes a mix of medication, dietary changes, and exercises to improve swallowing muscles. In terms of natural or functional medicine approaches, the focus is on supporting the body's healing processes and optimizing overall health. This could mean dietary interventions to reduce inflammation and heal the gut, or therapies to enhance nerve and muscle function. Therapists might also employ certain exercises to strengthen the muscles involved in swallowing. Nutritional support is vital, with emphasis on texture modification of foods and ensuring a safe, nutrient-rich diet. Hydration is key; even if swallowing liquids is difficult, innovative strategies like thickening liquids can help maintain adequate fluid intake. In some cases, acupuncture has shown promise in helping alleviate symptoms by potentially improving muscle function and reducing inflammation, though more research is needed in this area. Finally, stress management and mindfulness practices can also play a supporting role, as stress can exacerbate symptoms of dysphagia in some individuals. Adopting a holistic approach to treatment, by integrating functional medicine principles into conventional care, offers hope for more comprehensive management of dysphagia, potentially easing symptoms and improving quality of life for those affected.
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