If talking about the elderly The most common thing that we worry about is fall But today we will talk about another important symptom in the elderly.
Sarcopenic dysphagia is a condition in which the muscles involved in swallowing are weak, especially the tongue and the muscles under the chin. This can result in dysphagia.
Japanese Association of Dysphagia Rehabilitation Criteria for diagnosis have been established. by considering
- have dysphagia
- Having sarcopenia
- There are imaging results such as CT, MRI, or ultrasound that indicate decreased muscle mass related to swallowing.
- There are no other causes of dysphagia.
- If there are other conditions involved, such as stroke, cancer, etc., sarcopenia must be the main cause.
If items 1-4 are present, it can be said that it is definite sarcopenic dysphagia.
If points 1,2,4 are present, it is probable sarcopenic dysphagia.
If items 1,2,5 are present, it is possible sarcopenic dysphagia.
Or you can consider the algorithm as shown in the picture.
If swallowing problems are found, this results in not getting enough nutrients. and resulting in less muscle mass Therefore, there should be adequate exercise and nutritional supplements as follows.
✅ Exercise to increase the strength of the tongue.
You may use your tongue to push against the roof of your mouth as hard as possible and hold for about 10 seconds, then rest for 10 seconds. Repeat 5 times/round, 2 rounds a day.
✅ You should get enough nutrients.
Energy of at least 30 kcal/kg/day and protein 1.2 g/kg/day (the condition of the elderly should be considered again whether there are contraindications and precautions or not)
✅ In addition, you should exercise to increase the strength of your arm muscles and