Management of swallowing disorders in multiple sclerosis

Dysphagia can complicate multiple sclerosis (MS). Its real prevalence may be estimated to be around 30%-40%. Furthermore, dysphagia is life-threatening. In fact, its complications such as dehydration and aspiration pneumonia are a common cause of death and morbidity in late MS. The management of dysphagia should be focused on treatment of the specific dysphagic symptom and the underlying pathophysiology. The symptomatic management of dysphagia is based on two different types of approaches: the rehabilitative treatment and the pharmacological treatment. Botulinum toxin treatment may be a valid therapy in MS patients with oro-pharyngeal dysphagia associated with upper oesophageal sphincter hyperactivity.