Symptom 4: Difficulty Swallowing
Encephalitis Lethargica may also lead to physical symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, known medically as dysphagia. This symptom can complicate something as simple and necessary as eating and drinking, turning meal times into a struggle.
People with dysphagia often describe the sensation as feeling like something is stuck in their throat or chest. They may choke or cough during meals, or find that it takes significantly longer for them to finish eating. In some cases, they may even avoid eating or drinking to steer clear of these uncomfortable experiences, leading to weight loss and nutritional deficiencies.
The inability to swallow comfortably can also affect the person’s speech. They may start to slur their words or have difficulty pronouncing certain sounds. This can further exacerbate the feelings of frustration and helplessness associated with this condition.
Moreover, repeated choking and coughing can lead to more serious complications, such as aspiration pneumonia. This happens when food, drink, or saliva gets into the lungs, causing an infection. Hence, difficulty swallowing is not just a discomfort—it can pose a serious threat to the person’s health if not managed properly.(4)
