This study aims to investigate the correlation between COVID-19 and dysphagia in adults.The population of the study consisted of those who applied to Bezmialem University,Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Dysphagia Outpatient Clinic with the complaint ofdysphagia. Patients older than 18 years of age, suffering from dysphagia and not havingmental retardation were included in the study. Patients who did not have swallowingdifficulties and refused to participate in the study were excluded.
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is characterized by involvement in multiple tissues
and organs throughout the body. Conditions related to COVID-19 itself or its treatment
are known to be associated with swallowing function. Our study aimed to investigate the
correlation between COVID-19 and dysphagia in adults who applied to our dysphagia
outpatient clinic. Patients over the age of 18, who applied to the dysphagia outpatient
clinic were included in our study. Patients' demographic and COVID-19 information were
recorded. Swallowing impairment of the patients was evaluated with the fiberoptic
endoscopic swallowing study (FEES). FEES was scored with the Penetration-Aspiration Scale
(PAS). Eating Assessment Tool-10 (EAT-10) questionnaire was used to examine how the
quality of life of the patients was affected by swallowing difficulties. Oral motor
dysfunction (OMD) evaluation was performed by the clinician.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Older than 18 years of age
- Suffering from dysphagia
- Not having mental retardation
Exclusion Criteria:
- Patients who did not have swallowing difficulties
- Refused to participate in the study
Bezmialem Vakıf University
Istanbul 745044, Eyüp, Turkey (Türkiye)