9. Dysphagia: The Troubled Trails of FRDA
Swallowing is an intricate process that involves various muscles and nerves working in harmony. Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is a symptom that emerges when this harmony is disrupted, as is the case with Friedreich’s Ataxia. Dysphagia may lead to complications like choking, aspiration pneumonia, malnutrition, and dehydration, adding another layer of challenge for individuals living with FRDA.
The act of swallowing, seemingly simple, is a complex orchestration involving over 50 pairs of muscles and multiple nerves. It is composed of three phases: the oral phase, where food is prepared for swallowing; the pharyngeal phase, when the food is moved from the back of the mouth to the esophagus; and the esophageal phase, where the food is transported to the stomach.
FRDA, with its detrimental effect on nerves, brings disharmony to this process. The impaired coordination and weakness of swallowing muscles result in dysphagia, causing discomfort and potential health risks. As the disease progresses, dysphagia may worsen, necessitating dietary adjustments or even medical interventions to ensure sufficient nutrition and hydration.
From a holistic perspective, dysphagia can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life. It can affect the person’s ability to eat comfortably, lead to weight loss, and can even make social situations centered around food challenging. In severe cases, aspiration pneumonia, a condition that occurs when food or saliva is inhaled into the lungs, can develop, creating a potentially life-threatening situation. (9)
