Homeopathy treatment for Dysphagia

Dysphagia difficulty with swallowing refers to problems with the transit of food or liquid from the mouth to the hypopharynx or through the esophagus. Additionally, Severe dysphagia can compromise nutrition, cause aspiration, also reduce quality of life.

Differntial diagnosis

Prevention

Complications

Homeopathic treatment

Diet and Regiment

FAQ

Reference

Severe dysphagia can compromise nutrition, cause aspiration, also reduce quality of life. Additional terminology pertaining to swallowing dysfunction is as follows.

Generally, Aphagia (inability to swallow) typically denotes complete esophageal obstruction, most commonly encountered in the acute setting of a food bolus or foreign body impaction.
Moreover, Odynophagia refers to painful swallowing, typically resulting from mucosal ulceration within the oropharynx or esophagus. It commonly is accompanied by dysphagia, but the converse is not true.
Globus pharyngeus is a foreign body sensation localized in the neck that does not interfere with swallowing and sometimes is relieved by swallowing.
Besides this, Transfer dysphagia frequently results in nasal regurgitation and pulmonary aspiration during swallowing and is characteristic of oropharyngeal dysphagia.
Phagophobia (in other words, fear of swallowing) and refusal to swallow may be psychogenic or related to anticipatory anxiety about food bolus obstruction, odynophagia, or aspiration.

In general, Swallowing is complex, involving many muscles and nerves. Any condition that weakens or damages the muscles also nerves used for swallowing or leads to a narrowing of the back of the throat or Esophagus can cause dysphagia.

Esophageal dysphagia

Esophageal dysphagia refers to the sensation of food sticking or getting caught in the base of your throat or in your chest after you’ve started to swallow. Some of the causes of esophageal dysphagia include:

Achalasia

When the lower esophageal muscle (i.e. sphincter) doesn’t relax properly to let food enter the stomach, it can cause food to come back up into the throat.
Furthermore, Muscles in the wall of the esophagus might be weak as well, a condition that tends to worsen over time.

Diffuse spasm

This condition causes high-pressure, poorly coordinated contractions of the esophagus, usually after swallowing.
In detail, Diffuse spasm affects the involuntary muscles in the walls of the lower esophagus.

Esophageal stricture

A narrowed esophagus (stricture) can trap large pieces of food.
Tumors or scar tissue, often caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (in other words, GERD), can cause narrowing.

Esophageal tumors

In brief, Difficulty swallowing tends to get progressively worse especially, when esophageal tumors are present due to narrowing of the esophagus.

Foreign bodies

Generally, Sometimes food or another object can partially block the throat or esophagus.
Additionally, Older adults with dentures and people who have difficulty chewing their food may be more likely to have a piece of food become lodged in the throat or esophagus.

Esophageal ring

In brief, A thin area of narrowing in the lower esophagus can cause difficulty swallowing solid foods off and on.

GERD

Damage to esophageal tissues from stomach acid backing up into the esophagus can lead to either, spasm or scarring and narrowing of the lower esophagus.

Eosinophilic esophagitis

This condition, which might be related to a food allergy, is caused by too many cells called eosinophils in the esophagus.

Scleroderma

Development of scar-like tissue, causing stiffening also hardening of tissues, can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter.
As a result, acid backs up into the esophagus and causes frequent heartburn.

Radiation therapy

All in all, This cancer treatment can lead to inflammation also scarring of the esophagus.

Oropharyngeal dysphagia

Generally, Certain conditions can weaken the throat muscles, making it difficult to move food from your mouth into your throat and Esophagus when you start to swallow.

You might choke, gag or cough when you try to swallow or have the sensation of food or fluids going down your windpipe (in other words, trachea) or up your nose. Additionally, This can lead to pneumonia.

Causes of oropharyngeal dysphagia i.e.:

Neurological disorders

Certain disorders — e.g. multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy and Parkinson’s disease — can cause dysphagia.

Neurological damage

Sudden neurological damage, e.g. from a stroke or brain or spinal cord injury, can affect the ability to swallow.

Pharyngoesophageal diverticulum (in other words, Zenker’s diverticulum)

A small pouch that forms and collects food particles in the throat, often just above the esophagus, leads to difficulty swallowing, gurgling sounds, bad breath, also repeated throat clearing or coughing.

Cancer

Certain cancers and some cancer treatments, e.g. radiation, can cause difficulty swallowing.

The following are risk factors for dysphagia:

Aging

Due to natural aging and normal wear and tear on the esophagus as well as a greater risk of certain conditions, such as stroke or Parkinson’s disease, older adults are at higher risk of swallowing difficulties. But dysphagia isn’t considered a normal sign of aging.

Certain health conditions

People with certain neurological or nervous system disorders are more likely to have difficulty swallowing.

There are two types of dysphagia:

Oropharyngeal dysphagia (“high” dysphagia)

It occurs when a person has difficulty moving food to the back of the mouth and starting the swallowing process.
This is typically caused by a neurological problem that has weakened the nerves and muscles.

Esophageal dysphagia (“low” dysphagia)

It occurs when food or liquid stops in the esophagus, usually because of a blockage or irritation.

Pain while swallowing
Inability to swallow
A sensation of food getting stuck in the throat or chest or behind the breastbone (sternum)
Drooling
Hoarseness
Food coming back up (regurgitation)
Frequent heartburn
Food or stomach acid backing up into the throat
Weight loss
Coughing or gagging when swallowing
Pain while Swallowing Solid or Liquid
Regurgitation of food

Appearance of the Patient

Patients with dysphagia usually appear in discomfort.

Vital Signs

Normal

Skin

Skin examination of patients with dysphagia is usually normal.

HEENT

HEENT examination of patients with dysphagia is usually normal.

Neck

Neck examination of patients with dysphagia is usually normal, but may presents with masses or swelling of the neck depending on the underlying cause.
Laryngeal Cancer
Thyroid goiters
Esophageal cancers

Lungs

Pulmonary examination of patients with dysphagia is usually normal.

Heart

Cardiovascular examination of patients with dysphagia is usually normal.

Abdomen

Abdominal examination of patients with dysphagia is usually normal.

Back

Back examination of patients with dysphagia is usually normal.

Genitourinary

Genitourinary examination of patients with dysphagia is usually normal.

Neuromuscular

Neuromuscular examination of patients with dysphagia is usually dependent on the underlying disease.
Stroke
Neuromuscular disorders

Extremities

Extremities examination of patients with dysphagia is usually normal.

There are no diagnostic laboratory findings associated with dysphagia per se. However, in certain diseases leading to dysphagia, laboratory evaluation is done to look for the underlying disease.

Such diseases include the following:

Myasthenia gravis
Thyrotoxicosis
Inflammatory myopathies
Toxic myopathies

Following laboratory tests are done for the diagnosis of these diseases:

Acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibodies
Thyroid function tests
Muscle enzyme essays

Your health care provider will likely ask you for a description and history of your swallowing difficulties, perform a physical examination, and use various tests to find the cause of your swallowing problem.

Tests can include:

X-ray with a contrast material (barium X-ray)

You drink a barium solution that coats your Esophagus, making it easier to see on X-rays.
Your health care provider can then see changes in the shape of your Esophagus and can assess the muscular activity.
Your health care provider might also have you swallow solid food or a pill coated with barium to watch the muscles in your throat as you swallow or to look for blockages in your Esophagus that the liquid barium solution might not identify.

Dynamic swallowing study

You swallow barium-coated foods of different consistencies. This test provides an image of these foods as they travel down your throat.
The images might show problems in the coordination of your mouth and throat muscles when you swallow and determine whether food is going into your breathing tube.

A visual examination of your Esophagus (endoscopy)

A thin, flexible lighted instrument (endoscope) is passed down your throat so that your health care provider can see your Esophagus.
Your health care provider might take biopsies of the Esophagus to look for inflammation, eosinophilic esophagitis, narrowing or a tumor.

Fiber-optic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES)

Your health care provider might examine your throat with a special camera and lighted tube (endoscope) as you try to swallow.

Esophageal muscle test (manometry)

In manometry a small tube is inserted into your Esophagus and connected to a pressure recorder to measure the muscle contractions of your Esophagus as you swallow.

Imaging scans

These can include a CT scan, which combines a series of X-ray views and computer processing to create cross-sectional images of your body’s bones and soft tissues, or an MRI scan, which uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of organs and tissues.

Physical examination

Physical examination is important in the evaluation of oral and pharyngeal dysphagia because dysphagia is usually only one of many manifestations of a more global disease process.
Signs of bulbar or pseudobulbar palsy, including dysarthria, dysphonia, ptosis, tongue atrophy, and hyperactive jaw jerk, in addition to evidence of generalized neuromuscular disease, should be elicited.
The neck should be examined for thyromegaly.
A careful inspection of the mouth and pharynx should disclose lesions that may interfere with passage of food.
Missing dentition can interfere with mastication and exacerbate an existing cause of dysphagia.
Physical examination is less helpful in the evaluation of esophageal dysphagia as most relevant pathology is restricted to the esophagus. The notable exception is skin disease. Changes in the skin may suggest a diagnosis of scleroderma or mucocutaneous diseases such as pemphigoid, lichen planus and epidermolysis bullosa, all of which can involve the esophagus.

Plummer-Vinson syndrome
Esophageal stricture
Zenker’s diverticulum
Esophageal carcinoma
Stroke
GERD
Esophageal web
Diffuse esophageal spasm
Achalasia
Systemic sclerosis

General preventive measures for dysphagia include:

Following a healthy diet
Alcohol and smoking cessation
Regular exersice
Revising medications
Travel precautions

Difficulty swallowing can lead to:

Malnutrition, weight loss, and dehydration
Aspiration pneumonia
Choking – Food stuck in the throat can cause choking

If left untreated, dysphagia can also result in:

Recurrent upper respiratory infections
Pneumonia

These complications arise because food and liquids may not pass through the esophagus properly, leading to serious health issues over time. It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s recommendations to manage dysphagia effectively and avoid these potential risks.

[1] Homoeopathic Body-System Prescribing – A Practical Workbook of Sector Remedies

Why Choose Homeopathy?

Homeopathy offers natural and holistic healing, treating the root cause of ailments without side effects. It strengthens the body’s defense system, is gentle for all ages, and personalized to each individual’s needs. Choose homeopathy for safe, effective, and long-lasting health solutions.

Spiritual Homeopathy: Your Path to Natural Healing

At Spiritual Homeopathy, where we believe in the power of holistic healing and personalized care. Our mission is to provide compassionate and effective homeopathic treatment to help you achieve optimal health and well-being. With a focus on addressing the root cause of illness and promoting harmony between mind, body, and spirit, we are dedicated to guiding you on your journey towards vibrant health and vitality.

Why Choose Spiritual Homeopathy?

At Spiritual Homeopathy, we offer a unique approach to healing that integrates traditional homeopathic principles with a deep understanding of the spiritual aspects of health. Our team of experienced homeopathic practitioners combines expertise with empathy, ensuring that you receive the highest standard of care tailored to your individual needs.

Our Approach to Treatment

We believe that true healing occurs when all aspects of a person—physical, emotional, and spiritual—are in balance. That’s why our treatment approach goes beyond simply addressing symptoms to identify and treat the underlying imbalances contributing to your health concerns. By addressing the root cause of illness and supporting your body’s innate healing ability, we empower you to achieve lasting health and vitality.

Services We Offer

Consultations: Our experienced best homeopathy doctors in Hyderabad offer comprehensive consultations to assess your health concerns, medical history, and individual needs. we also take online consultation and We take the time to listen to your story, understand your unique health goals, and develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs.

Remedies: At Spiritual Homeopathy, we provide a wide range of homeopathic remedies carefully selected to address a variety of health conditions. From acute ailments to chronic diseases, our remedies are safe, gentle, and effective, offering natural relief without the side effects often associated with conventional medications.

Follow-Up Care: We believe in the importance of ongoing support and monitoring throughout your healing journey. Our team is dedicated to providing regular follow-up care to track your progress, adjust treatment as needed, and ensure that you are on the path to optimal health and well-being.

Our Commitment to You

At Spiritual Homeopathy, your health and wellness are our top priorities. We are committed to providing you with compassionate care, personalized treatment, and the support you need to achieve your health goals. Whether you are seeking relief from a specific health concern or simply looking to optimize your overall well-being, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Homeopathic Medicines for Dysphagia

The homeopathic remedies (medicines) given below indicate the therapeutic affinity but this is not a complete and definite guide to the homeopathy treatment of this condition. The symptoms listed against each homeopathic remedy may not be directly related to this disease because in homeopathy general symptoms and constitutional indications also taken into account for selecting a remedy, potency and repetition of dose by Homeopathic doctor.

So, here we describe homeopathic medicine only for reference and education purpose. Do not take medicines without consulting registered homeopathic doctor (BHMS or M.D. Homeopath).

Medicine:

Arsenicum Album

Throat swollen, constricted, burning, also unable to swallow.
In detail, Everything swallowed seems to lodge in the esophagus, which seems closed.
Worse – cold, wet weather, cold food and drinks. Better – warm drinks, heat.

Alumina

Dry, sore throat. Additionally, Food cannot pass esophagus contracted.
As if either splinter or plug in throat.
Worse – periodically, in morning. whereas Better -on awakening.

Baptisia

In general, Constriction, contraction of Esophagus.
Great difficulty in swallowing solid food.
Can swallow liquids only.
Contraction at cardiac orifice.
Painless sore throat also offensive discharge.
Worse – humid heat, fog.

Baryta carb

Can only swallow liquids.
Spasm of esophagus as soon as food enters esophagus, causes gagging also choking.
Feeling of a plug-in pharynx.
Smarting pain when swallowing. Worse – empty swallowing.

Belladonna

Difficult deglutition, worse liquids, sensation of a lump, esophagus dry.
Feels contracted, Spasms in throat, Continual inclination to swallow, Scraping sensation.
Muscles of deglutition, very sensitive, great pain swallowing, inability to swallow.
Worse -liquid, on the other hand, Better – semi erect.
Besides this, Belladonna works well when a person having dysphagia has to drink water to help swallow food.
There is also a tendency to choke easily while swallowing. Lastly, The food may go down the wrong way.

Cicuta

Throat feels as if grown together.
Spasms of esophagus cannot swallow.
Effects on esophagus from swallowing sharp pieces of bone.
Worse – from touch.

Ignatia

Feeling of lump that cannot be swallowed.
Swallowing difficult on account of inflamed, swollen and ulcerated tonsils.
Tendency to choke, globus hystericus. Sore throat.
Stitches when not swallowing.
Worse – morning, after meals, liquids, grief. Better – eating something solid.

Kali carb

Especially indicated in Sticking pain as from fish bone.
Moreover, Swallowing difficult, food goes down esophagus slowly.
Worse – soup also coffee.

Phosphorus

Generally, Burning in esophagus.
Stricture of esophagus. additionally, Dryness in pharynx.
Furthermore, Thirst for very cold weather. Cardiac opening to stomach seems contracted, too narrow.
Vomiting throws up ingesta by mouthfuls.
Worse – touch, warm food or drink. on other words, Better – cold food.

Silicea

Stinging pain on swallowing.
Besides this, Periodical quinsy – causing difficulty in swallowing.
Pricking as if pin in tonsil.
Worse – especially in morning, lying down.

Conventional Treatments for Oropharyngeal Dysphagia

To treat oropharyngeal dysphagia, you may learn special exercises that stimulate the nerves involved in swallowing. These exercises are designed to improve coordination and strength of the muscles used in swallowing.

Additionally, you may be taught to position your head in ways that help you swallow more effectively. These positioning techniques can make a significant difference in the ease and safety of swallowing.

Key Techniques:

Swallowing Exercises: Specific exercises aimed at enhancing the muscle control and strength necessary for safe swallowing.
Head Positioning: Learning to position your head in certain ways to facilitate easier swallowing.

The combination of these conventional treatments with the homeopathic remedies mentioned earlier provides a more holistic approach to managing oropharyngeal dysphagia. Always consult with healthcare professionals before starting any new treatment.

Consult the Best Homeopathy Doctors in India at Spiritual Homeopathy Clinics, Hyderabad
We offer both in-clinic and online consultations, specializing in chronic ailments such as thyroid issues, diabetes, sexology problems, dermatology complaints, gastric issues, rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, respiratory complaints, migraines, and more. Our best homeopathy doctors in Hyderabad provides personalized care and has treated patients from over 60 countries, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Canada, England, Holland, China, Sri Lanka, Germany, France, USA, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Russia, Afghanistan, Myanmar, and many other Asian and European countries. We also specialize in Homeopathy treatment for kids and children.
Book your video consultation or in-clinic appointment now and experience holistic healing with our experienced team.

Avoiding acidic or spicy foods, mouthwash or drinks containing alcohol, and tobacco smoking.
Eating soft, creamy, and mild foods, such as cheeses, mashed potatoes, and yogurt.
Avoiding rough and hard foods, such as chips, nuts, and some fruits and vegetables.
Rinsing mouth or gargling (do not swallow) with a mixture of water, salt, and baking soda.
Eating and drinking lukewarm or cold foods and drinks; frozen fruit or ice pops may be soothing.
Eating sour cream before each meal to coat the mucous membranes.
Staying hydrated by drinking small amounts of liquids throughout the day.
Reducing risk for GERD by maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding irritating, acidic foods, including tomato-based foods, citrus, and chocolates.
Avoiding eating large, fatty meals right before bed.

What is Dysphagia

Dysphagia difficulty with swallowing refers to problems with the transit of food or liquid from the mouth to the hypopharynx or through the esophagus.

Homeopathic Medicines used by Homeopathic Doctors in treatment of Dysphagia

Arsenicum Album
Alumina
Baptisia
Baryta carb
Belladonna
Cicuta
Ignatia
Kali carb
Phosphorus

What causes Dysphagia

Achalasia
Diffuse spasm
Esophageal stricture
Esophageal tumors
Foreign bodies
Esophageal ring
GERD
Neurological disorders
Pharyngoesophageal diverticulum

What are the symptoms of Dysphagia

Pain while swallowing
Inability to swallow
Drooling
Hoarseness
Food coming back up (regurgitation)
Frequent heartburn
Food or stomach acid backing up into the throat