Aphagia
Aphagia
Aphagia (pronounced: /əˈfeɪdʒiə/) is a medical term that refers to the inability or refusal to swallow. The term is derived from the Greek words "a-" meaning "without" and "phagein" meaning "to eat".
Etymology
The term "Aphagia" is derived from the Greek words "a-" (ἀ-) meaning "without" and "phagein" (φαγείν) meaning "to eat". Thus, it literally translates to "without eating" or "inability to eat".
Symptoms
The primary symptom of aphagia is the inability to swallow. This can lead to malnutrition and dehydration. Other symptoms may include pain while swallowing, regurgitation of food, and weight loss.
Causes
Aphagia can be caused by a variety of conditions, including neurological disorders, stroke, cancer, and injuries to the throat or esophagus. It can also be a symptom of mental health conditions such as anorexia nervosa.
Treatment
Treatment for aphagia typically involves addressing the underlying cause. This may include surgery, medication, or therapy. In severe cases, a feeding tube may be required.
Related Terms
- Dysphagia: Difficulty in swallowing
- Anorexia nervosa: An eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image
- Neurological disorders: Disorders that affect the nervous system
- Stroke: A condition that affects the blood supply to the brain
- Cancer: A group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Aphagia
- Wikipedia's article - Aphagia
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