Speech therapy for dysphagia

Swallowing disorders

Dysphagia is a medical term used to describe difficulty in swallowing that can occur due to a variety of reasons, including neurological disorders, stroke, or injury.

Swallowing is a complex process involving the coordination of numerous muscles and nerves with irregular symptoms including coughing or choking while eating, weight loss, and even malnutrition. In severe cases, dysphagia can increase the risk of aspiration pneumonia, a potentially life-threatening condition.

When it comes to dysphagia, speech therapists work closely to assess swallow function and identify the underlying cause of the problem. Clinical evaluations can include a detailed examination of the oral and pharyngeal structures, as well as an instrumental swallowing study.

One of the primary goals of speech therapy for dysphagia is to strengthen the muscles involved in swallowing.

This can be achieved through a variety of exercises, targeting specific muscle groups such as the tongue, throat, and jaw. Strengthening these muscles can help improve coordination and control during the swallowing process, making it easier to move food or liquid from the mouth to the stomach.