7. Difficulty in Swallowing: The Unanticipated Struggle
Leukodystrophy can also result in an unanticipated struggle: difficulty in swallowing, medically termed dysphagia. This symptom often starts subtly, with the patient experiencing mild discomfort while swallowing. Over time, the condition can become so severe that patients might choke on their food or drink, leading to life-threatening complications such as aspiration pneumonia.
Dysphagia results from the damage leukodystrophy inflicts on the nerves that control the muscles involved in swallowing. As these nerves deteriorate, the coordinated process of swallowing becomes disrupted. The patient may struggle with both the oral phase of swallowing (manipulating and preparing the food in the mouth) and the pharyngeal phase (moving the food down the throat).
Management of dysphagia often involves a team of specialists, including a speech and language therapist and a dietitian. Modifications to the diet, such as adjusting the texture of foods or thickening liquids, can make swallowing safer and easier. In severe cases, alternate methods of feeding may be necessary to ensure adequate nutrition. (7)
