[Swallowing disorders in the elderly: an underestimated problem]

Rev Med Liege. 2008 Dec;63(12):715-21.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Swallowing disorders are frequently observed in the elderly and often accompany an organic pathology. Such disorders may quickly constitute a threat for life: inhalation syndrome, pulmonary infection, undernutrition, dehydration. Diagnosing swallowing disorders is difficult and relies on anamnesis, clinical examination combined with paraclinical investigations. However, there is little place for medicinal or surgical treatment, their management being integral and multidisciplinary.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aging*
  • Belgium / epidemiology
  • Deglutition Disorders / complications
  • Deglutition Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Deglutition Disorders / epidemiology
  • Deglutition Disorders / etiology
  • Deglutition Disorders / therapy
  • Dehydration / etiology
  • Humans
  • Medical History Taking
  • Physical Examination / methods
  • Pneumonia, Aspiration / etiology
  • Prevalence
  • Quality of Life
  • Risk Factors
  • Weight Loss