Swallowing Disorders

Speech Language Pathologists (Speech Therapists) assess and treat difficulties people have with eating and swallowing (dysphagia). These problems may be present from birth or become a problem as a result of a stroke, illness, surgery or injury. If symptoms of dysphagia are present, speech therapy may help.

Symptoms of Dysphagia include:

• Coughing
• Choking
• Throat clearing
• Gargled voice/breathing
• Excessive drooling
• Pneumonia
• Nasal drainage
• Inability to chew solid foods
• Difficulty starting a swallow
• Needing to swallow 2-3 times
• Food remaining in mouth after swallowing
• Pocketing of food in cheek
• Increased body temperature