You have probably never heard of Plummer Vinson Syndrome (PVS) unless you or someone close to you has suffered personally from this disorder. Many other diseases are much more publicized and talked about but the truth is that knowing more about PVS can help you from contracting it.
Plummer Vinson Syndrome occurs most often in women who have already gone through menopause but this is not a hard and fast rule. Anyone can contract this disease but it is more likely to appear in women over the age of 50. Some studies have also shown that genetic factors play a role in whether or not an individual is susceptible.
Symptomas of Plummer Vinson Syndrome include weakness, difficulty in swallowing, tongue and mouth pain, and a web-like structure in the espohagus. The good news is that PVS is easily treatable by raising the iron intake of the patient. The “web” in the esophagus can also be dilated; this will facilitate the passage of food and liquids without pain or difficulty. By simply monitoring iron intake individuals can avoid this iron-deficiency anemia and PVS altogether.