Early sign of dementia: difficulty swallowing. Dysphagia, a symptom often overlooked, could indicate the disorder. Stay informed.

A British physician has brought attention to a lesser-known warning sign of dementia, a degenerative cognitive condition affecting millions globally. In addition to memory loss, Dr. Ahmad Khundakar highlighted difficulty swallowing as a potential early indicator of the disorder. This symptom, also known as dysphagia, was identified in a 2008 study published in the National Library of Medicine.

According to Khundakar, dysphagia results from damage to brain regions responsible for movement and coordination, particularly those involved in the swallowing reflex. Individuals with dementia may experience muscle weakness, coordination issues, and reduced throat sensation, leading to swallowing difficulties.

Alzheimer’s disease, a common form of dementia characterized by memory loss and behavioral changes, is the primary cause of dementia. The Alzheimer’s Association reported that over 6 million Americans, including individuals of all ages, are affected by the disease, with 6.7 million individuals aged 65 and older living with Alzheimer’s in 2023.

Symptoms of dysphagia shared by Dr. Khundakar include obsessive chewing and a tendency to retain food in the mouth while eating, resulting in weight loss, dehydration, and malnutrition. The NHS East Sussex Healthcare Trust emphasized the prevalence of dysphagia among people with dementia, warning of associated risks such as aspiration, choking, poor nutrition, and a diminished quality of life.

We express gratitude to the sources cited for providing valuable information on this topic.