Difficulty swallowing or producing saliva are common. As is strogens. I keep a bottle of water on me at all times unless the irritation gets too bad. Then consult your pcp.
October 26, 2024
Difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia, is indeed a symptom that can occur in people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Up to 13 percent of people with SLE experience dysphagia. Symptoms of dysphagia include:
- Taking a long time to eat
- Experiencing pain while swallowing
- Being unable to swallow
- Feeling like Show Full Answer
Difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia, is indeed a symptom that can occur in people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Up to 13 percent of people with SLE experience dysphagia. Symptoms of dysphagia include:
- Taking a long time to eat
- Experiencing pain while swallowing
- Being unable to swallow
- Feeling like something is stuck in the throat or chest
- Having food back up in the throat or mouth
- Developing heartburn
- Losing weight unintentionally
- Coughing or gagging while swallowing
- Drooling
- Hoarseness
Treatment options for dysphagia in lupus include:
1. Treat Acid Reflux: Managing acid reflux can help reduce swallowing problems.
2. Medications: Immunosuppressants and corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation.
3. Speech Therapy: A speech-language pathologist can teach techniques to make swallowing easier.
4. Dietary Changes: Softening foods and using thickening powders for liquids can help.
5. Posture Adjustments: Adjusting your posture while eating can reduce choking risks.
6. Treat the Underlying Disease: Controlling lupus inflammation can help reduce esophageal inflammation.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider for a tailored treatment plan.
October 23, 2024