The Correlation Between COVID-19 and Dysphagia in Adults With Swallowing Disorders
The Correlation Between COVID-19 and Dysphagia in Adults With Swallowing Disorders
This study aims to investigate the correlation between COVID-19 and dysphagia in adults. The population of the study consisted of those who applied to Bezmialem University, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Dysphagia Outpatient Clinic with the complaint of dysphagia. Patients older than 18 years of age, suffering from dysphagia and not having mental retardation were included in the study. Patients who did not have swallowing difficulties and refused to participate in the study were excluded.
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is characterized by involvement in multiple tissues and organs throughout the body. Conditions related to COVID-19 itself or its treatment are known to be associated with swallowing function. Our study aimed to investigate the correlation between COVID-19 and dysphagia in adults who applied to our dysphagia outpatient clinic. Patients over the age of 18, who applied to the dysphagia outpatient clinic were included in our study. Patients' demographic and COVID-19 information were recorded. Swallowing impairment of the patients was evaluated with the fiberoptic endoscopic swallowing study (FEES). FEES was scored with the Penetration-Aspiration Scale (PAS). Eating Assessment Tool-10 (EAT-10) questionnaire was used to examine how the quality of life of the patients was affected by swallowing difficulties. Oral motor dysfunction (OMD) evaluation was performed by the clinician.
Inclusion Criteria:
Exclusion Criteria: