Dysphagia

Dysphagia – advice for patients

The following information is for patients who have been diagnosed with a condition that may lead to difficulties with swallowing.  If you have any further questions, please contact your Consultant, GP or local Speech and Language Therapy Team.

What is dysphagia?

Dysphagia is a difficulty with swallowing. It can be caused by a number of conditions that affect the nerves and muscles in the throat.

What are some of the signs of a swallowing problem?

• A wet and bubbly sounding voice
• Difficulties with dribbling or drooling
• Chest infections

When eating or drinking you may experience:

• Choking
• Coughing or throat clearing
• Difficulty with chewing food
• Needing lots of swallows to clear each mouthful
• Becoming short of breath -may breathe faster or breathing might start to sound noisy.
• Eyes starting to water
• Nasal regurgitation (fluids or food coming out through your nose)

What are the risks associated with a swallowing difficulty?

• Choking – this may happen if food enters the throat and blocks the passage of air
• Food or drink getting into the lungs. This can cause an infection called aspiration pneumonia
• Malnutrition and dehydration
• Weight loss

Eating and drinking with a swallowing difficulty – the following advice may be helpful:

• Being sat fully upright during mealtimes and for 30 minutes afterwards
• Avoid talking and eating at the same time
• Minimise distractions during mealtimes (e.g. turn the TV off)
• If you are getting tired, take smaller amounts at mealtimes and eat little and often. Only eat and drink when you are fully alert
• A speech and language therapist can carry out an assessment of your swallowing and may be able to offer further specific advice and support if required