Swallowing difficulties, diagnostics and treatments is the topic for today. Swallowing occurs in four phases: oral preparatory, oral, pharyngeal, and esophageal. Swallowing difficulty can be broken down into two categories: oropharyngeal (which includes the first three phases) and esophageal. Oropharyngeal dysphagia is caused by disorders of the nerves and muscles in the throat. These disorders weaken the muscles, making it difficult for a person to swallow without choking or gagging. Snake bites: A bite from a venomous snake should always be treated as a medical emergency. Even a bite from a harmless snake can lead to an allergic reaction or infection. Read more about what to do in the event of a snake bite.

Biofeedback incorporates the patient’s ability to sense changes and aids in the treatment of feeding or swallowing disorders. For example, patients with sufficient cognitive skills can be taught to interpret the visual information provided by these assessments (e.g., surface electromyography, ultrasound, FEES) and to make physiological changes during the swallowing process. Modifications to the texture of the food may be implemented to allow for safe oral intake. This may include changing the viscosity of liquids and/or softening, chopping, or pureeing solid foods. Modifications of the taste or temperature may also be employed to change the sensory input of the bolus. Clinicians consult with the patients and caregivers to identify patient preference and values for food when discussing modifications to oral intake. Consulting with the team, including a dietician, is also a relevant consideration when altering a diet to ensure that the patient’s nutritional needs continue to be met. See extra details at Swallowing problems.

A blockage or a malfunction anywhere in this part of the body or in the nervous system controlling swallowing can result in dysphagia. There are two types: Esophageal dysphagia occurs when food/liquid stops in the esophagus. This can happen in several ways. Stomach acid can reflux into the esophagus. Over time, the reflux causes inflammation and a narrowing (stricture) of the esophagus. Food and eventually liquids feel like they are sticking in the middle and lower chest. There may be chest discomfort or even real pain. Fortunately, physicians can usually dilate (widen) this narrowing, and there is now treatment available to keep it from returning. Cancer, hiatus hernia, and certain muscle disorders of the esophagus are less frequent causes of esophageal dysphagia. Solid food is usually more of a problem than liquids.

We offer Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES), a gold-standard, evidence-based procedure that can be performed at the patient’s bedside with no barium consumption or radiation exposure. Using the flexible endoscope, we’re able to visualize the swallow in a patient’s natural eating environment to assess swallowing function. FEES is a cost-effective alternative to Modified Barium Swallow Studies (MBSS) at 1/4 of the price with no transportation or mileage costs to your facility. Find more details on www.dysphagiainmotion.com.