MyParkinsonsTeam

Coughing and throat irritation in Parkinson's disease are often related to swallowing difficulties (dysphagia). This happens because Parkinson's affects the coordination of muscles involved in swallowing, from your mouth down to your esophagus. The condition can impact the dopamine neurons in different parts of your brain Show Full Answer

Coughing and throat irritation in Parkinson's disease are often related to swallowing difficulties (dysphagia). This happens because Parkinson's affects the coordination of muscles involved in swallowing, from your mouth down to your esophagus. The condition can impact the dopamine neurons in different parts of your brain that control these functions.

Sometimes when swallowing becomes difficult, saliva, food, or liquids can go down the wrong way, causing that tickling sensation and triggering coughing. One MyParkinsonsTeam member shared a similar experience, describing how they started choking on their own saliva, which was quite frightening. It's important to discuss these symptoms with your healthcare provider, as they may recommend:
- Meeting with a speech and language pathologist who can teach you specific swallowing techniques
- Thickening liquids before drinking them to reduce the risk of aspiration
- Adjusting your medication dosage or schedule
- Exploring additional treatment options to help manage these symptoms

These symptoms shouldn't be ignored as they could lead to more serious complications if left unmanaged.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

How To Manage Difficulty Swallowing in Parkinson’s

5 Potential Respiratory Complications With Parkinson’s Disease