Dysphagia and Swallowing Disorders

E Berryhill McCarty; Tiffany N Chao

doi:10.1016/j.mcna.2021.05.013

Dysphagia and Swallowing Disorders

Med Clin North Am. 2021 Sep;105(5):939-954. doi: 10.1016/j.mcna.2021.05.013.

Authors

E Berryhill McCarty¹, Tiffany N Chao²

Affiliations

¹ Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh, 203 Lothrop Street #500, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
² Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, 3737 Market Street, 3rd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA. Electronic address: tiffany.chao@pennmedicine.upenn.edu.

PMID: 34391544
DOI: 10.1016/j.mcna.2021.05.013

Abstract

Dysphagia, defined as impairment of the swallowing process, is a common symptom and can be a significant source of morbidity and mortality in the general population. This article summarizes the causes of the condition, its prevalence, and the consequences and costs of untreated dysphagia. The aim of this article is to provide a framework for the general internist in assessing, diagnosing, and managing dysphagia in an adult patient. Basic diagnostic screening procedures and techniques for management are emphasized. A basic treatment pathway based on cause is provided for reference.

Keywords: Aspiration; Dysphagia; Swallowing disorders.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Deglutition / physiology
Deglutition Disorders / diagnosis
Deglutition Disorders / etiology
Deglutition Disorders / pathology*
Deglutition Disorders / therapy
Gastroesophageal Reflux / diagnosis
Gastroesophageal Reflux / pathology
Humans
Laryngopharyngeal Reflux / diagnosis
Laryngopharyngeal Reflux / pathology
Physical Examination
Primary Health Care
Risk Factors