In a definition essay, you explain the meaning of a certain term by giving a detailed description of it, and support your definition with clear examples or facts. Such explanations are needed if a term is special, abstract, disputed or does not have a common meaning.
Dysphagia has many possible causes and happens most frequently in older adults. Any condition that weakens or damages the muscles and nerves used for swallowing may cause dysphagia. For example, people with diseases of the nervous system, such as cerebral palsy or Parkinsonâs disease, often have problems swallowing.
Dysphagia can be caused by a difficulty anywhere in the swallowing process described above. There are two general types of dysphagia: Oropharyngeal dysphagia (high dysphagia) - the problem is in the mouth and/or throat, sometimes caused by tongue weakness after a stroke, or due to a difficulty making saliva.