Swallowing Difficulties

Eating and drinking more slowly and mindfully as we age may actually save your life. Swallowing safely is a learned behavior. It takes over 30 muscles to complete the action of swallowing. If not done correctly, the airway may be partially open for food and drink to be aspirated into the lungs. You can already imagine the the potential outcomes that brings. In a recent publication of The Guardian (August 2025) it detailed the perils of swallowing disorders (dysphagia for one) and from infants to the infirmed, all are susceptible. This bodily function that may seem as natural as breathing or your heart beating, is a surprisingly intricate and vulnerable maneuver.

There are simple ways to protect the health of the swallowing mechanisms, "The right way and what feels natural may be a little different for everyone, " said Dr. Laura Dominguez in Dallas, Texas, a board-certified otolaryngologist and fellowship-trained laryngologist specializing in voice and swallowing disorders. What causes such disorders can be anything from an inflammation in the throat from an upper respiratory infection to a side-effect from radiation therapy to the neck or spine.

Some difficulties can be brought on by anxiety and even an aversion to the texture of foods that we become sensitive to. Swallowing uses several cranial nerves so the trigger combinations can be extensive. Chronic conditions such as Parkinson's Disease or recovery following neurological events like stroke can be a factor. Dementia, gastrointestinal disease, and even psychological distresses leading to acid reflux and similar such conditions will weaken swallowing muscles over time, just like taxing any other muscles in the body.

Like many of the other stresses that we can associate with changes as we age, it's important to remember to move with mindfulness, eat and drink slowly and with attention. Control repeating thoughts and see a medical professional to aid in navigating anything that feels like a disconcerting change in your health. We are always learning and often times faced with the re-learning of functions that we never thought we would be dealing with. As the saying goes, we've never been old before. There is still a bit of a learning curve in life so be patient, discuss health with friends and family. Enjoy life, breathe and swallow with care.