What Is Dysphagia and How Is It Treated?

Dysphagia refers to difficulty swallowing food, liquids or saliva. It can range from mild discomfort to a serious risk of choking or aspiration. Left unaddressed, dysphagia impacts nutrition, hydration and overall quality of life.

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Understanding Dysphagia

Types of Dysphagia

• Oropharyngeal dysphagia

Difficulty initiating a swallow, often due to muscle weakness or nerve damage in the mouth and throat.

• Esophageal dysphagia

Sensation of food sticking in the chest or throat, commonly caused by blockages, strictures or motility disorders.

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Common Symptoms and Causes of Dysphagia

Key Symptoms

• Coughing or choking during meals

• Recurrent chest infections

• Unintended weight loss

• Regurgitation or “pocketing” of food in the mouth

Underlying Causes

• Neurological conditions (stroke, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis)

• Head or neck surgery or radiotherapy

• Muscle disorders (myasthenia gravis)

• Structural narrowing (esophageal strictures, tumours)

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Dysphagia Diagnosis and Assessment

1. Clinical Swallow Evaluation

A licensed, experienced speech pathologist observes your bite, tongue movement and swallowing cues, either in person or via an online meeting.

2. Instrumental Assessments

• Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS)

• Fibreoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES)

These tests pinpoint where the swallow breaks down and guide a tailored therapy plan.

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Dysphagia Treatment Approaches

Swallowing Exercises

• Chin-tuck against resistance

• Shaker head-lift exercises

• Tongue-hold (Masako manoeuvre)

• Effortful swallow drills

Regular practice strengthens the specific muscles involved in swallowing.

Diet Modifications

Adjusting food and fluid textures reduces the risk of aspiration.

Consistency Description Recommended Use

Thin liquids Water-like fluids Advance carefully under guidance

Mildly-thick Slightly thicker than water Mild dysphagia

Moderately-thick Pours slowly, spoons hold shape briefly Moderate dysphagia

Pureed solids Smooth, pudding-like consistency Severe chewing or oral control issues

Postural Techniques

• Chin-tuck posture to protect the airway

• Head rotation towards the weaker side

• Side-lying to direct bolus flow

Each technique redirects the food path or reduces residue.

Technological Aids

• Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES)

• Surface Electromyography (sEMG) biofeedback

These tools enhance muscle recruitment and swallowing awareness.

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Working with a Speech Pathologist for Dysphagia

1. Comprehensive evaluation of swallowing function

2. Collaborative goal-setting with you and your carer

3. Individualised therapy plan

4. Ongoing progress reviews and adjustments

Your therapist's home-based visits and telehealth sessions emphasise real-life mealtime practice, ensuring strategies carry over into everyday routines.

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Living Well with Dysphagia

• Maintain regular meal schedules

• Stay hydrated with recommended fluid consistencies

• Use adaptive utensils if needed

• Involve family or carers in mealtime strategies

• Join support groups for motivation and shared tips

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If you or a loved one is experiencing swallowing difficulties, you don’t have to manage it alone. Contact Enable Speech Pathology today to book a dysphagia assessment and receive a customised treatment plan designed for adult clients in Adelaide and online. Don't just be a number, get personalised care from an experienced certified speech pathologist.