Some Of The Benefits Of Swallow Study

By Karen Thomas


Maintaining health living conditions is very essential. It is recommended to always go for checkups so as to maintain proper functioning of essential body parts. Such checkups include proper Swallowing and digestion of food. This is important in a way that if it does not work properly, some parts of the body might refuse to function properly. That is why you need a Swallow Study that helps you discover some of the dysfunctions in your body.

This test is done using x-rays. It can record the way your body parts function during the process of food entering your body. Videofloroscopic test can be done but mostly it the Barium one that is preferred. The disorder that comes as a result of Swallowing is commonly known as dysphagia which simply translates to difficulties experienced during the process. Some of the symptoms may include breathing problems and food particles sticking in your throat.

Various health problems can also facilitate the occurrence of this condition. Therefore, it is recommended to see a doctor in case of any problem as one health issue encourages the emergency of the other. Stroke, muscular dystrophy, dental problems, mouth sores, and other conditions that reduce the amount of saliva might put you in a risk of getting dysphagia. Which also arises other health issues, the most common one being aspiration.

This disorder affects several body parts. The mouth is amongst the parts. A slight challenge inside the mouth hinders chewing and swallowing processes that are primarily initiated in the mouth. It also makes it difficult for one to contain fluids in the mouth. Therefore, the fluids end up getting spilled to the pharynx when not prepared to receive it. This action can facilitate aspiration.

Pharynx is also another part that is at the risk. Any dysfunctional in the pharynx is very dangerous to the movement of food substances. They end up being retained in the pharynx and not able to reach the esophagus. If the obstruction is severe in a way that the clearance is greatly affected it may even be impossible for one to ingest enough food required for one to survive. This translates to causing death from such a mere cause.

Esophagus is also a key element in transport of foods and liquids. Its inability to function properly results to liquids and foods over staying in it. This can lead to damage of some of the parts. Weakness in coordination of some parts reduces esophagus propulsive forces. Therefore, effective transportation of food is prevented.

Dysphagia has many dangers but the worst of them all is aspiration. This happens when food and liquids pass through the vocal chords. It is often caused by destructions in the pharynx. Such destructions include overflow of food substances retained or closure in the pharynx. A person who aspirates can be at a very high risk of conducting serious respiratory diseases. Examples of such diseases include aspiration pneumonia.

It is definitely important and of great relevance to conduct the test. By so doing, you avoid many disastrous health issues that might be costly to treat. When you visit your doctor, ensure he or she clearly explains things to you. It is your responsibility to know what kind of test you are receiving and whether it is the best for you or not. Also, know the purpose of the test you are receiving.




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