How can a Speech and Language Therapist help with dysphagia?

What is dysphagia?

Dysphagia is the medical name for swallowing difficulties.

 What are the symptoms of dysphagia?

Signs of swallowing difficulties when eating and drinking are coughing, a wet voice, foods sticking in the throat, holding food in the mouth or difficulty chewing.

 What are the risks of dysphagia?

People may have recurrent chest infections, weight loss or become dehydrated.

Who does dysphagia affect?

It can affect people with a neurological diagnosis such as a stroke, multiple sclerosis and following head injuries. It can also affect people with head and neck cancer. 

How can Speech and Language Therapy help dysphagia?

Speech and Language Therapy can help by

• Changing the foods and fluids people drink to be safer and/or more comfortable.

•  Improving the swallow through rehabilitation exercises.

• Recommending specialist cups or straws

• Providing training to family members and clients.

Our Speech and Language Therapists are Clinical Specialists in Dysphagia. We are trained in Videofluoroscopy ( a swallow assessment using x-rays) and FEES ( a swallow assessment by endoscopy). We are additionally trained in the McNeil Dysphagia Therapy Program for chronic Dysphagia.