Difficulty Swallowing

Dysphagia, or trouble with swallowing is often caused by neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s Disease, Dementia, and ALS; as well as neurological impairments like stroke and brain injury. 

A swallow evaluation would be completed to determine what is causing the difficulty swallowing. A swallow study like a Modified Barium Swallow (MBS) or Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) may be indicated and we can help refer you for that appropriately. 

Treatment for swallowing disorders can include exercises for strength and coordination, trying out strategies when you eat to make it more comfortable and safe or sometimes modifying the food you eat to help it go down a little bit easier. Treatment is for YOU and we will never "force" you change the texture or consistency of your liquids. 

Eating is a huge part of our lives and the quality of our lives and I want to help you get back to it! 

Signs of Dysphagia 

• Coughing during or after meals 

• Wet or "gurgly" sounding voice during or after meals

• Avoiding certain foods/drinks 

• Weight loss

• Frequent pneumonias

• Needing a lot of extra time to eat 

• Food feeling "stuck" in your throat 

• Food remaining in the cheeks or in the mouth after you swallow

• Food or liquid spilling out from the mouth while eating

• Drooling 

• Pain when swallowing