Between 30 and 40 per cent of people with MS experience
difficulties with swallowing at some time, though for some
people changes are so small that they are hardly aware of them.
However long symptoms last, there are practical things that can
help you manage the changes effectively. MS can cause swallowing
difficulties if there is damage to any part of the brain that
controls swallowing, or damage to the connections between the
brain and the spinal cord (the ‘brainstem’). Just like any other
symptom of MS, swallowing difficulties may come and go.
Temporary changes in swallowing can happen during a relapse and
improve, or disappear completely, over time. For others,
swallowing can become more difficult in the long term. Finding
the causes of difficulties and factors which make problems worse
can help find the best ways to manage your difficulties. There
are various self-help tips, like good posture, chewing well and
eating in a relaxed atmosphere. A speech therapist can also help
out.