Dementia is a mental condition that affects millions worldwide, with Alzheimer’s being the most prevalent form. However, new research suggests there might be an unexpected early sign of the disorder: difficulty in swallowing, also known as dysphagia.
According to World Health Organization, over 55 million people suffer from dementia globally. Traditionally, memory loss has been considered the most obvious symptom of dementia. However, recent research by Dr. Ahmad Khundakar suggests that dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, could be an early indicator of the disorder.
“Dysphagia occurs due to damage to brain regions responsible for movement and coordination, including those controlling the swallowing reflex,” Khundakar explained.
People with dementia might experience muscle weakness, coordination problems, and reduced throat sensation, leading to difficulties in swallowing. This could lead to weight loss, dehydration, and malnutrition, all of which can exacerbate the progression of dementia.
The main cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, a condition prevalent in older adults that affects memory and behavior. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, in 2023, over 6.7 million Americans aged 65 and older were living with the disease.
The connection between Alzheimer’s and dysphagia can be traced back to a 2008 study published in the National Library of Medicine. The study found that patients with Alzheimer’s often experienced dysphagia due to damage to the brain regions responsible for the swallowing reflex.
Dysphagia might manifest as obsessive chewing or a tendency to hold food in the mouth while eating. The NHS East Sussex Healthcare Trust emphasizes how common it is for people with dementia to have difficulty eating or drinking and warns that the signs of dysphagia should not be ignored.
“There are risks associated with having dysphagia including aspiration (food going down the wrong way into the lungs), choking, poor nutrition and a reduced quality of life,” the NHS warns.
