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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Difficulty In Swallowing Food At 92 Years Age?

Hi, My mother is 92 and cannot swallow food but is drinking anywhere from 3 to 8 oz. of Ensure a day plus ice chips and juice that is thickened to enable her to swallow better. She is bed ridden and very frail..what would be her life expentency if she is able to continue this way?
Fri, 20 Jun 2014
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Geriatrics Specialist,  's  Response
Hi..
Obstruction of esophagus most probably at this age could be due to cancer in esophagus or inflammation. An upper gastro intestinal endoscopy can identify a cause.
Because there is moderate obstruction, only liquids might go in.
For your second question, liquid diet with good nutrition, your mother can survive longer. Possible risk is associated complications which can occur due to bed ridden condition. Aspiration pneumonia, cardiac failure, bed sores and any infections if associated would reduce the life span.
Any further queries, happy to help again.
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What Causes Difficulty In Swallowing Food At 92 Years Age?

Hi.. Obstruction of esophagus most probably at this age could be due to cancer in esophagus or inflammation. An upper gastro intestinal endoscopy can identify a cause. Because there is moderate obstruction, only liquids might go in. For your second question, liquid diet with good nutrition, your mother can survive longer. Possible risk is associated complications which can occur due to bed ridden condition. Aspiration pneumonia, cardiac failure, bed sores and any infections if associated would reduce the life span. Any further queries, happy to help again.