What is the major complication that can arise from dysphagia and regurgitation?

• A. Aspiration pneumonia
• B. Esophageal cancer
• C. GERD
• D. Esophageal ulcers

Answer: (A)

Dysphagia and regurgitation raise the risk that material from the throat or esophagus will enter the airway instead of the esophagus. When this happens, the inhaled food, saliva, or stomach contents can inflame lung tissue and promote infection, leading to aspiration pneumonia. This is the major complication because it directly impacts breathing and can become a serious, life-threatening condition if not promptly treated. While long-term issues like esophageal cancer or ulcers can occur with esophageal disease, they are not the immediate, most severe consequence of swallowing impairment and regurgitation in most cases.