Swallowing Disorders

Early evaluation and treatment of swallowing
problems can prevent upper respiratory congestion
and/or pneumonia. Speech-language pathologists
work closely with radiologists to evaluate swallowing
using modified barium swallow studies to help
determine the cause of the swallowing problem
as a result of:

• Stroke
• Cancer surgery
• GERD (gastro-esophageal reflux)
• Progressive neurological disorders
• Pulmonary disease

Treatment typically includes management of:

• Diet and food texture recommendations
• Swallow management
• Compensatory swallowing techniques