Overview

The swallowing problem makes it difficult for a person to pass foods and liquid down the throat and food pipe. The growth of cancer in the throat, mouth, or food pipe narrows the pathway for passage of foods and drinks. 

Types of cancer treatment causing swallowing problem

• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Surgery

Side effects of cancer treatment causing swallowing problems

• Fibrosis of esophagus, mouth, and throat
• Infections in the mouth or food pipe may occur as a side effect
• Mouth sores, pain, or inflammation in the mouth or esophagus
• Dry mouth due to radiation therapy or chemotherapy
• Physical changes in mouth after surgical removal of tumors from mouth, throat, or esophagus

How radiation therapy affects swallowing problems

Radiation therapy is given depending upon the size and location of the tumor. Radiation therapy affects the muscles and structure of the system that supports the process of swallowing.

Side effects of radiation therapy show up 1-2 weeks after the treatment starts. The therapy may cause painful swallowing, mouth sores, thick saliva, dry mouth, swelling, and change in taste.

Sign and symptoms of swallowing problem

• Coughing or vomiting the food while a patient tries to swallow
• Open mouth sores
• Weight loss
• Mouth feels watery or may feel too much saliva
• Pain in the throat and chest when food is swallowed
• Feeling as if food is sticking as one swallow
• White patches on the inner side of the mouth

How to manage swallowing problem in cancer patients

• Eat foods that are soft and rich in calories and proteins
• Avoid dry foods, dip bread in milk or tea
• Use a straw to take sips
• Take small bites and swallow the food completely before taking another bite
• Avoid alcohol
• Avoid consuming hot, spicy, and acidic foods
• While eating or drinking sit upright
• Take oral medicines such as pills and tablets in a crushed form
• Consulting a swallowing therapist is beneficial to make the swallowing process smoother
• Mash the foods you want to eat, it is easy to swallow
• Avoid foods that need a lot of chewing
• Choose nutritional supplement drinks

Not everyone suffering from cancer have the problem of swallowing. The treatment plan and proper management reduce the severity of swallowing.

About Mozocare

Mozocare is a medical access platform for hospitals and clinics to assist patients to access the best medical care at affordable prices. It offers medical information, medical treatment, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, laboratory consumables, and other allied services.

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