Dysphagia
Dysphagia
refers to difficulty or inability to swallow
foods or liquids. Dysphagia has many different
causes. Any condition that weakens or disables
muscles or nerves can cause dysphagia. Cerebral
palsy, Parkinsonís disease, and cerebral
vascular disease are examples of conditions that
can cause dysphagia. A speech language pathologist
can evaluate and help in-patients and out-patients
who have dysphagia. If you have difficulty swallowing,
notice yourself coughing or choking when eating
or drinking, or have pain when you swallow, contact
a speech language pathologist or your provider
for help.
A diet consistency change may be recommended by the speech language pathologist
for you or your family member who has difficulty swallowing. Please click on
the link below for information on different diet consistencies.
Dysphagia Diets:
Level 1 Pureed
Level 2 Mechanically Altered
Level 3 Advanced
Modified Barium Swallow Studies
Barium Swallow Information
For additional information on dysphagia, explore the following links:
http://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/voice/dysph.asp
http://www.asha.org/public/speech/swallowing/ |
