What is Swallowing Therapy?

Swallowing therapy, also known as dysphagia therapy, involves assessment and treatment to improve swallowing function and prevent complications related to swallowing difficulties. Swallowing is a complex process involving a coordinated sequence of muscle movements in the mouth and throat to move food or liquid from the mouth to the stomach. Swallowing occurs numerous times a day, typically without conscious effort, during meals and when consuming liquids. Swallowing therapy is crucial for individuals with swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) to prevent aspiration, malnutrition, dehydration, and improve overall quality of life.

Reasons for Swallowing Therapy

Swallowing therapy is necessary for individuals experiencing difficulty swallowing due to various causes such as neurological conditions, stroke, head and neck cancers, or age-related changes.

Clinical Manifestations & Signs

Signs of swallowing difficulties include coughing or choking while eating or drinking, food sticking in the throat, weight loss, recurrent chest infections, and a gurgly voice after meals.

Therapy & Treatment

Treatment may include swallowing exercises, dietary modifications, compensatory strategies, postural adjustments, and texture modifications to improve swallowing function and safety.

How to Avoid Swallowing Issues

Preventative measures include maintaining good oral hygiene, eating slowly, taking small bites, drinking plenty of fluids, and avoiding foods that may pose a choking hazard.

Assessment Process

Assessment involves evaluating the individual’s swallowing function through clinical observations, swallowing tests, and collaboration with other healthcare professionals like otolaryngologists and gastroenterologists.

Interventions by Speech Therapist

Speech therapists implement interventions such as swallowing exercises, sensory-motor techniques, dietary modifications, and strategies to improve swallowing safety and efficiency.