Abstract:

Background: Dysphagia is a life-threatening symptom. The present study aims to evaluate the swallowing function and dysphagia status of MS patients and to find factors that may cause dysphagia. Also, to bring attention to the importance of the early dysphagia examination in MS patients. Methods: A total of 30 MS patients who applied to the neurology clinic of Mustafa Kemal University were included in the study. Dysphagia was evaluated using GUSS (Gugging Swallowing Screen) test for quantitative evaluation of swallowing function. Demographic data (age, gender) of all patients were recorded. Disease duration, if present dysphagia duration, MS type, and Kurtzke's Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) indicating the patient's level of disability was all recorded. Results: According to the GUSS test classification; while 14 patients had mild dysphagia, the remaining 16 patients did not reveal any dysphagia or aspiration risk. We found a weak correlation between EDSS and GUSS(r=-0.227), and between EDSS and Subjective Duration of Dysphagia (r=-0.227). There was a moderate and negative correlation between GUSS and duration of disease (-0.543), GUSS, and teeth status (r=-0.535) but a weak correlation between GUSS and age; GUSS and duration of dysphagia. There was a significant difference in teeth status and GUSS score Conclusion: As a result, individuals with MS may have swallowing dysfunction due to different conditions, so these patients should be evaluated closely in terms of swallowing function from the early stages of the disease immediately upon diagnosis. Thus, serious problems related to aspiration can be prevented.

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