Dysphagia after stroke: a literature review

Raymundo Solís-Gómez, Department of Neurological Education and Training, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery; Section of Postgraduate and Research Studies, School of Medicine of the National Polytechnic Institute; Mexico City, Mexico
José Cruz-Mendoza-Torres, Department of Neuropathology, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Mexico City, Mexico
Mónica Segura-Hernández, Department of Phoniatrics, American British Cowdray (ABC) Medical Center, Mexico City, Mexico
Héctor A. Leon-García, Department of Neurological Education and Training, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Mexico City, Mexico
Brenda Cazares-Ruiz, Department of Neurological Education and Training, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Mexico City, Mexico
Itzel G. Xotlanihua-Xotlanihua, Department of Neurological Education and Training, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Mexico City, Mexico
Pablo E. Irigoyen-Ruíz, Department of Neurological Education and Training, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Mexico City, Mexico
Fabiola E. Serrano-Arias, Department of Neurological Education and Training, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery; Stroke Clinic, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery. Mexico City, Mexico

Post-stroke dysphagia (PSD) is a frequent condition and affects 80% of stroke patients. It increases the risk of malnutrition, pneumonia, and reduced quality of life. Its main risk factors include brainstem infarcts, a high NIHSS score, advanced age, hypertension, and diabetes. Pathophysiology involves both sensory and motor dysfunction with reduced spontaneous swallowing and disruption in the swallowing neural network. Early diagnosis is essential, through videofluoroscopy or fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation. Treatment combines rehabilitation, behavioral strategies, neurostimulation, and acupuncture being an alternative of treatment. Complications include malnutrition, pneumonia, and worsening quality of life. PSD worsens prognosis and requires a multidisciplinary approach to management. Despite advancements, more robust studies are needed to optimize treatment and improve clinical outcomes.

Keywords: Dysphagia. Swallowing. Stroke. Pneumonia. Malnutrition.