Like breathing, swallowing is a reflex and essential to everyday life. Swallowing difficulty, known as dysphagia , may present as difficulty drinking, chewing, swallowing, sucking, taking medication, controlling saliva or protecting the airway. Dysphagia can be permanent or temporary, but if not managed properly, it can result in serious and potentially life threatening medical problems such as pneumonia and chest infections, choking, poor nutrition and dehydration. This includes recommendations regarding the most appropriate types of food and drinks to have and identifying the best feeding position and method to ensure a person feels confident and remains safe during mealtimes.
Swallowing difficulties Did you know swallowing is a complex activity requiring the coordination of more than 55 pairs of muscles in the face, throat and neck, and six cranial nerves?
What are the signs of dysphagia? How we can help At Speak and Swallow, our caring team can assist with identifying and managing dysphagia. Our Speech Therapists have in-depth knowledge of compensatory and rehabilitation techniques which can support the short-term and long-term recovery or management of swallowing function through diet, exercises and Meal Management Plans.
We also offer Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing FEES at our Burpengary clinic, meaning that you can get access to timely instrumental assessment for an in-depth understanding of your swallowing difficulties and appropriate management strategies.
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