How do I know if someone has dysphagia?

 

Dysphagia is generally defined as a problem with swallowing that results from weak or slow muscles in the mouth or throat. It can be a mild or severe problem and can have several different causes, such as stroke, head injury, Parkinson’s disease, and dementia.

What happens to someone who has dysphagia?

Dysphagia can be life threatening if it is not identified and treated immediately. When a person with dysphagia eats and drinks, food and/or liquid can enter their airway and lungs; this is referred to as aspiration. Aspiration can lead to pneumonia and other respiratory infections.

How do I know if someone has dysphagia?

Some signs and symptoms of dysphagia to watch for while a person is eating and drinking are:

  • coughing or choking

  • food remaining in the mouth after swallowing

  • food getting “stuck” in the throat”

  • having a “wet” or gurgly voice

  • effortful swallowing

However, because of decreased sensation in the mouth and/or throat, a person may not be aware of such problems. In this case, the various signs and symptoms of dysphagia may not be seen. You may discover a rise in body temperature or having congested lungs as the only evidence of a swallowing problem. A speech-language pathologist can perform a swallow evaluation to assess the cause and severity of the swallowing problem.

If you suspect you or someone you know has dysphagia, please come and see me soon and don’t wait.

Otherwise, continue to follow the blog to learn more about the mechanics and importance of good swallowing.

 
 
 

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Throat, Teach & LearnErin Shellenbergerdysphagia, swallowing, choking, throat, mouth