Dysphagia natural history, complications and prognosis

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Feham Tariq, MD [2], Hamid Qazi, MD, BSc [3]

Overview

If left untreated, dysphagia can potentially cause aspiration pneumonia, malnutrition, or dehydration, all of which can be symptoms of dysphagia as well. Prognosis is dependent on the underlying disease. However, prognosis is generally regarded as good.

Natural History, Complications, and Prognosis

The natural history, complications, and prognosis of dysphagia are as follows:

Natural History

• The symptoms of dysphagia usually develop in any decade of life, and start with symptoms such as difficulty eating solids or drinking fluids.

Complications

• Common complications of dysphagia include:
  • Aspiration pneumonia
  • Malnutrition
  • Dehydration

Prognosis

• Depending on the extent of the disease causing dysphagia at the time of diagnosis, the prognosis may vary. However, the prognosis is generally regarded as good.