Swallowing
Dysphagia is the term used to describe difficulties swallowing.
Dysphagia can occur for many reasons - due to neurological processes such as stroke or Parkinsons’ Disease. It can also occur after a critical illness, with cancer, or simply through the aging process.
Speech Pathologists manage dysphagia through clinical assessment of the cranial nerves, the function of the swallow through observation and their in-depth knowledge of the intricacies of the swallow. Specialised assessment tools including fluoroscopy (similar to x-ray) or nasenoscopy can also be used to provide more detailed understanding of the swallow. Speech Pathologist use all of these tools to establish client centred goals, strategies and rehabilitation programs to optimise health and wellbeing through safe and effective oral intake.
