A to Z of MS Swallowing problems
Although difficulty in swallowing (known as dysphagia) is not generally regarded as a common symptom of MS, some studies have found that 33% of people with MS reported swallowing difficulties.
In MS dysphagia can be caused by damage affecting the coordination of the various muscles involved in swallowing. There may be disturbances in the oral (mouth) or pharyngeal (throat) phases, which can result in difficulty chewing, pocketing food in the cheek, drink dribbling from the mouth, or episodes of coughing/choking when eating or drinking.
A speech and language therapist will be able to assess how well someone is swallowing. Following assessment, the therapist can advise on posture, consistencies of food, amounts and eating environment.
A physiotherapist may also advise on seating and a dietician can advise on food and thickening agents for drinks, both of which can make swallowing easier.
If the swallowing problems are more advanced and eating is putting the individual at risk, nutrition can be provided through a procedure called percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG). This involves a tube being inserted through the abdomen and directly into the stomach.