SWALLOWING

Swallowing difficulty, also known as dysphagia (dis-FAY-juh), can occur due to a variety of neurological or anatomical diseases or conditions, including brain injury, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, head and neck cancers etc.

Swallowing difficulty may involve the following:

• Problems moving food in the mouth
• Trouble starting a swallow
• Difficulty getting food down
• Throat clearing after eating or drinking
• Coughing after eating or drinking
• Wet voice after eating or drinking
• Choking

Problems with swallowing can lead to:

• Poor nutrition and hydration
• Decreased energy
• Pneumonia
• Reduce social interactions in activities that involve food

Speech-language pathologists (S-LPs) are trained in the identification, management and treatment of swallowing problems. A speech-language pathologist can determine what foods are safe, easy and enjoyable to eat, and what exercises and techniques can improve the swallow function. Speech-language pathologists will work with the client and their families to provide education on the swallowing and how to reduce the risks.