Let’s talk swallowing!
Around 1 million Australians have difficulty swallowing (dysphagia).
What is dysphagia you ask? Dysphagia is difficulty with any of the following:
Sucking
Chewing
Swallowing
Eating
Drinking
Controlling saliva (e.g., dribbling or drooling)
Protecting the airways from food or drink.
Causes of dysphagia can include…
Stroke or Traumatic Brain Injury
Progressive Neurological Conditions (e.g., Parkinson’s Disease, Huntington’s Disease, Dementia and more)
Other Neurological Conditions (e.g., Cerebral Palsy)
Muscle weakness (due to ageing)
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD)
Cancer or cancer treatments
But why is this important?
Eating, drinking and swallowing are an important part of every day life. When this basic need is taken away from us, it can lead to…
Aspiration pneumonia (chest infections due to food or drink going down the wrong way)
Life threatening situations (e.g., choking)
Poor nutrition and/or dehydration
Reduced participation in social activities (e.g., family mealtimes)
Reduced quality of life and mental wellbeing.
So… how do I know if I have dysphagia?
Look for the following signs:
Food, drink or saliva falling out of the mouth
Difficulty chewing food
Difficulty clearing food or drink from the mouth
Feeling of food or drink stuck in the throat
Throat clearing, coughing, gagging or choking when eating or drinking
Wet or gurgly sounding voice when eating or drinking.
How can a Speech Pathologist help?
Speech Pathologists have expert knowledge around the muscles of the mouth, tongue and throat (which are used for both speech and swallowing). Speech Pathologists develop personalised treatment plans to support dysphagia, which may include:
Food and fluid modifications - i.e., changing food and drink textures
Rehabilitation exercises - to improve muscle strength and coordination
Compensatory strategies - implementing strategies to promote safety during mealtimes.
Dysphagia affects more people than you think. It’s important to be aware, know the risks and seek help when needed!
Think you may have dysphagia? Get in touch with our team - we are here to help.
