Swallowing
Swallowing difficulty is also known as 'dysphagia'. It includes any difficulty with drinking, eating, sucking, swallowing, chewing and protecting the lungs from food or drink going down the wrong way, and our team supports it at every age.
What dysphagia looks like
Dysphagia can show up in different ways at mealtimes. Common signs include:
How speech pathologists help
Assessment
To evaluate the oral, pharyngeal and oesophageal stages of a swallow.
Exercises
To strengthen mouth, tongue and throat muscles if appropriate.
Strategies and education
To help teach safe techniques during meal times.
Diet modifications
To assist with food and liquid textures for safety when eating and drinking.
Referrals
For videofluoroscopies and/or tube feeding.
Mealtime assessments, reports and training
At Speak With Us we offer both in clinic and at home assessments. Following the assessment we create an individualised Mealtime Assessment Report, and if required, a mealtime management plan.
Training for care-givers and supported living accommodation (SIL) staff can be provided upon request.
Conditions commonly associated with dysphagia
Dysphagia can commonly be associated with the following conditions:
Frequently asked
Do I need a doctor's referral?
Is this covered by private health insurance?
Where do sessions take place?
What ages do you work with?
Have concerns about swallowing or feeding?
Reach out today and one of our friendly clinicians will talk through your mealtime concerns and the next steps. No waitlist, supporting all ages.