Dysphagia is simply defined as a swallowing disorder. It can occur in any of the three phases of swallowing:
- Oral
- Pharyngeal
- Esophageal
Dysphagia is often noted in stroke survivors. Usually, dysphagia affects the oral and/or pharyngeal phase of swallowing. The patient coughs or chokes with attempting to swallow saliva, liquids or food. A speech-language pathologist often evaluates a patient’s ability to swallow safely, without food or liquid going into his or her airway/lungs and potentially causing bronchitis or pneumonia.
The physician typically orders a bedside swallow evaluation as necessary. Once the speech pathologist completes the evaluation, he or she will make any necessary recommendations. These may include a modified barium swallow, diet recommendations or modifications, or an alternate means of nutrition.
Remember, it is very important to follow your doctor’s guidelines on swallowing. These guidelines can help to prevent conditions including pneumonia.
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 1/31/2007
