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Oculopharyngeal Muscular Dystrophy (OPMD)
Medical Management
Dysphagia
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There are a number of techniques that may help treat dysphagia, ranging from holding the head in different positions to changing the consistency of foods and liquids. Commercial thickeners may give liquids a more manageable consistency.
In advanced cases, a nonsurgical procedure called throat stretching or a surgical procedure called a cricopharyngeal myotomy may be warranted. Tube feeding is another option for advanced cases.
Your MDA clinic will refer you to a speech-language pathologist (SLP) or an otolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat doctor) as needed.
Limb weakness
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Upper arm and shoulder weakness that limits function can be addressed with adaptive techniques through occupational therapy.
For more on the medical management and pathophysiology of OPMD, see In Focus: Oculopharyngeal Muscular Dystrophy.
Ptosis
Droopy eyelids, or ptosis, can significantly impair vision and may lead to social awkwardness.
This problem can be resolved with a type of surgery called a frontalis sling performed by an oculoplastic surgeon.
Or, for a “low-tech” solution, some people use attachments to glasses that hold the eyes open. These are called eyelid crutches or ptosis crutches.