Dockyard : Take care of your throat

Most of the COVID-19 patients also experienced a change in their voice, ranging from a rough one to a deeper-pitched one or a mere whisper. The inflammation of vocal cords is exacerbated by long periods of coughing

Dysphagia, a medical condition that makes swallowing of food or fluid difficult, is one of the lesser-known side effects of COVID-19 infection. The condition has so far been observed as a fallout of viral and bacterial infections, pharyngeal and esophageal obstructions or other palate problems and neurological diseases. Dysphagia was witnessed in maximum cases of severe cases of COVID-19, especially those who developed acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and were ventilated.

There are a few ways to feel better even if one has this condition:

• Think of baby food and bring your food to that consistency. Include a lot of fluid such as juices to the diet. As you get comfortable, slowly shift to a normal diet. Chew the food completely before swallowing
• Sit upright when you eat or drink. Start with liquids using straw. Do not lay down or bend while eating or drinking. Stand or walk for a minimum of 30 minutes after meals
• Small portion sizes help to ease the discomfort of dysphagia. Clear your mouth completely before taking the next bite.

Most of the COVID-19 patients also experienced a change in their voice, ranging from a rough one to a deeper-pitched one or a mere whisper. The inflammation of vocal cords is exacerbated by long periods of coughing. Such an effort makes the vocal folds put extra effort to clear any mucus from lungs and throat, in the process making them swollen and inflamed.

Easing the sore throat and post-COVID voice problem can be done by following these steps:

• Keep yourself well hydrated with warm fluids. Drink about two liters of fluid (plain water and fresh juices) daily. Avoid caffeine or alcohol as they can aggravate the condition
• Warm saline gargles and steam inhalation for at least 15 minutes
• Try to rest your voice as much as possible.

If you are in hospital then you must keep a few things in mind that comprises immediately  informing the concerned Doctor or paramedical staff immediately if you are feeling more short of breath during or after the meals.

If you are recovering at home, then you must be careful about a few things and directly inform your General Physician if you are facing problems while eating or drinking something and coughing or choking while having your food. Such patients should avoid shouting, smoking or chewing tobacco and going in dusty areas Medicated lozenges can also be used.

The writer is Dr Col Vijay Dutta Senior Consultant - Internal Medicine at Indian Spinal Injuries Centre