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Dysphagia in multiple sclerosis - prevalence and prognostic factors
P Calcagno1, G Ruoppolo, M G Grasso
1RCCS S Lucia Rehabilitation Hospital, Rome, Italy.
Acta Neurologica Scandinavica
|March 21, 2002
Summary
Multiple sclerosis (MS) patients with brainstem impairment and severe illness are more likely to experience dysphagia (swallowing difficulties). Early evaluation and rehabilitation are crucial for managing this common MS symptom.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease.
- Dysphagia is a common complication affecting quality of life in MS patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze swallowing function in multiple sclerosis patients.
- To identify prognostic factors for dysphagia in MS.
Main Methods:
- 143 consecutive patients with progressive MS underwent swallowing examinations.
- Indirect and direct methods, including fiberendoscopic evaluation, were used.
Main Results:
- Dysphagia was present in 34.3% of patients.
- Severe brainstem impairment (OR=3.24) and pronounced illness severity (OR=2.99) were significant risk factors for dysphagia.
- Compensatory strategies effectively resolved dysphagia in 93.8% of affected patients.
Conclusions:
- MS patients with brainstem impairment and high disability levels require careful swallowing evaluation.
- Early detection and intervention for dysphagia can mitigate risks of aspiration and malnutrition.
- Swallowing rehabilitation is highly effective in managing MS-related dysphagia.