Dysphagia (swallowing) therapy 

Dysphagia is the term used to describe swallowing difficulty. Dysphagia refers to any disruption to a person’s ability to swallow, from their mouth all the way to the stomach. Dysphagia can occur for a variety of reasons, including:

• Stroke/traumatic brain injury

• Head and neck cancer

• Neurodegenerative diseases (e.g. Parkinson’s disease or ALS)

Dysphagia is a frustrating condition that can impact hydration, nutrition, and quality of life. Persons with dysphagia are at increased risk for complications such as pneumonia. Speech language pathologists are a crucial part of the dysphagia management team, from accurate diagnosis to treatment via targeted rehabilitation programs, compensatory strategy training, and diet modification if appropriate.

For more information:

National Foundation for Swallowing Disorders