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Tag: Difficulty swallowing

Explore our comprehensive collection of health articles in this category.

What foods are difficult to swallow for those with dysphagia?

5 min read
According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, roughly 3% of the population experiences dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, which makes certain food textures challenging and even dangerous. For those living with this condition, understanding what foods are difficult to swallow is crucial for preventing choking, aspiration, and malnutrition.

What to Do If You Are Unable to Eat?

5 min read
According to the Cleveland Clinic, a loss of appetite is also known as anorexia and can be caused by a wide range of factors, from short-term illness to chronic conditions. Understanding the potential causes and having a plan is crucial for maintaining your health and preventing complications like malnutrition.

Can Dysphagia Cause You to Lose Weight?

4 min read
According to research, dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is a common problem, especially among older adults, with up to 68% of residents in care homes with dementia exhibiting signs of the condition. If not properly managed, this can lead to significant unintentional weight loss, malnutrition, and other serious complications.

What Vitamin Deficiency Causes Trouble Swallowing?

4 min read
Dysphagia, the medical term for trouble swallowing, is a rare but documented symptom of certain nutritional deficiencies. Addressing a specific vitamin deficiency that causes trouble swallowing is critical for treatment, with research showing strong links to deficiencies in both iron and Vitamin B12.

Understanding a Common Reason for Tube Feedings: Dysphagia and Beyond

3 min read
According to research from the National Institutes of Health, dysphagia, or impaired swallowing, is one of the most common factors contributing to malnutrition across all age groups and is a primary driver for the use of tube feedings. These feeding tubes are a crucial medical intervention used to provide essential nutrition, fluids, and medication when a person cannot do so safely by mouth.

Can I Eat Pizza After LINX Surgery? A Comprehensive Guide

4 min read
After LINX surgery, patients are typically advised to start with a soft diet and avoid certain dry, tough foods like pizza crust for a period of weeks. While the prospect of enjoying a normal meal is a major milestone, knowing exactly when and how to reintroduce specific items like pizza is crucial for a smooth recovery and proper device function.

Can lack of B12 cause difficulty swallowing?

3 min read
Case studies and medical research have documented that dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is a rare but possible neurological symptom associated with severe vitamin B12 deficiency. A lack of B12 can cause difficulty swallowing by disrupting the nervous system's control over the intricate muscles involved in the swallowing reflex.

Can You Grind Up Calcium Pills? A Guide to Safe Supplement Alternatives

4 min read
Over half of all elderly people find it difficult to swallow pills, raising a common question about how to safely take solid medication. For those wondering, can you grind up calcium pills, the answer depends entirely on the type of supplement, as crushing certain formulations can be dangerous and alter their intended effect. This guide will help you understand the critical differences and safer alternatives available.

What to Eat When You Can't Chew or Swallow

4 min read
According to the National Foundation of Swallowing Disorders, over 15 million Americans experience some form of dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing. For those who can't chew or swallow easily, finding nutritious and appealing food can be a daily challenge. This guide explores safe, flavorful, and healthy options to ensure adequate nutrition and make mealtimes enjoyable again.