What is dysphagia?
Dysphagia is the medical term for difficulty swallowing. Swallowing uses many muscles and nerves, so problems can happen in the mouth, throat, or esophagus. People with dysphagia may feel food getting stuck, cough, or choke when they swallow, or find eating uncomfortable.
Dysphagia can affect any age but is more common in older adults. It can be caused by neurological conditions like stroke, Parkinson's disease or ALS, muscle weakness, narrowing of the esophagus, or the effects of illness or injury.
Because swallowing is essential for nutrition and safety, ongoing dysphagia can lead to weight loss, dehydration, or food and liquid entering the airway (aspiration), which can cause lung infections.
Common signs and challenges
- Coughing or choking while eating or drinking
- Feeling like food is stuck
- Wet or gurgly voice after swallowing
- Taking a long time to finish meals
- Avoiding certain foods or drinks
- Food or liquid leaking from the mouth
- Unplanned weight loss
- Frequent chest infections
How therapy may help
Every plan starts with an evaluation. Which disciplines are involved depends on your goals and what the evaluation shows.
What to expect at Empowerize
Your therapist works one-on-one with you or your child to build a customized treatment plan. We collaborate with your referring physician and give regular updates on your plan of care. Families and caregivers are included in goal setting and home strategies.
Questions families ask about dysphagia
What is the difference between dysphagia and dysphasia?
Dysphagia means difficulty swallowing. Dysphasia (more often called aphasia) is a language disorder that affects speaking or understanding. A speech-language pathologist treats both.
Who treats swallowing problems?
Speech-language pathologists are the specialists who evaluate and treat swallowing disorders in children and adults.
Is coughing while eating a sign of dysphagia?
It can be. Frequent coughing or choking during meals may mean food or liquid is entering the airway. Talk with your physician and ask about a swallowing evaluation.