10. The Hidden Impact: Digestive System Involvement in FRDA
Our tenth fact revolves around the hidden, yet significant impact of Friedreich’s Ataxia on the digestive system. While neurological and motor symptoms take center stage, understanding FRDA’s effects on digestion can provide a more holistic view of this condition.
A prevalent digestive symptom in FRDA patients is dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing. As FRDA affects nerves controlling muscle movements, swallowing can become a challenge. This difficulty can lead to problems like choking, malnutrition, and even aspiration pneumonia.
Beyond swallowing, the motility of the entire gastrointestinal tract can be affected, leading to symptoms like constipation and gastric reflux. This issue stems from the dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, responsible for controlling ‘automatic’ functions, including digestion.
These digestive issues can, in turn, lead to nutritional deficiencies, making it harder for individuals with FRDA to maintain their health. It’s a cascading effect – FRDA leads to digestive problems, which in turn contribute to nutritional issues, further exacerbating the overall health scenario. (10)
