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Dysphagia (Swallowing Difficulty) Rehabilitation

Systematic assessment and treatment of swallowing disorders.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department. Book Appointment →

What is Dysphagia (Swallowing Difficulty) Rehabilitation?

Dysphagia rehabilitation is a systematic process for evaluating and treating swallowing disorders. It is applied in stroke, Parkinson disease, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, head and neck cancer, and aging.

Swallowing occurs in four phases: oral preparatory, oral, pharyngeal, and esophageal. Rehabilitation includes restorative (improving function) and compensatory strategies.

The multidisciplinary team includes a speech-language therapist, physiatrist, neurologist, ENT specialist, dietitian, and swallowing rehabilitation nurse. Swallowing safety and adequate nutrition are the main goals.

Symptoms

Coughing or choking during swallowing
Wet voice
Eating very slowly
Food residue accumulating in the mouth
Recurrent pneumonia
Weight loss and dehydration

Risk Factors

Stroke and neurological diseases
Aging (presbyphagia)
Head and neck cancer and radiotherapy
Dementia and cognitive impairment
Tracheostomy and ventilator use
Surgeries involving swallowing structures

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When coughing or choking occurs while eating
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Recurrent aspiration pneumonia
  • After stroke for swallowing safety evaluation
  • When swallowing problems develop in Parkinson disease

Treatment Methods

01
Bedside clinical swallowing evaluation
02
Objective diagnosis with videofluoroscopy (VFSS) and FEES
03
Swallowing maneuvers (Mendelsohn, supraglottic swallow)
04
Shaker exercise, Masako maneuver
05
Texture modification (IDDSI scale)
06
NMES (neuromuscular electrical stimulation)
07
Oral motor exercises
08
Individualized nutrition plan and education

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.