Swallowing Disorder Evaluation and Treatment
VoiceOver Speech Pathology treats dysphagia and other swallowing disorders arising from stroke, injury, or other conditions.
Swallowing Disorder Evaluation and Treatment (Dysphagia)
Swallowing disorders, also known as dysphagia*, occur when an individual experiences difficulty or discomfort while swallowing food, liquids, or even saliva. This can affect a person’s ability to eat and drink, leading to concerns for pulmonary health, poor nutrition, and hydration, along with reduced overall quality of life. Swallowing difficulties can arise from a variety of conditions, such as stroke or other neurological disorders, injuries, or structural issues, and may cause symptoms like coughing, choking, food “going down the wrong way,” and food getting stuck.
At VoiceOver, we understand how eating and drinking play a vital role in enriching our lives in several ways:
Nourishment and Health
The primary function of food and drink is to provide essential nutrients that our bodies need to function optimally. A balanced diet can lead to better physical health, increased energy levels, and enhanced mental clarity.
Social Connections
Meals are often a communal activity, bringing people together. Sharing food and drink fosters connections, strengthens relationships, and creates a sense of belonging. Family dinners, celebrations, and gatherings often revolve around shared culinary experiences.
Social Connections
Meals are often a communal activity, bringing people together. Sharing food and drink fosters connections, strengthens relationships, and creates a sense of belonging. Family dinners, celebrations, and gatherings often revolve around shared culinary experiences.
Sensory Experience
Eating and drinking engage our senses. The flavors, aromas, and textures of food and beverages can evoke emotions, memories, and sensations, making the experience of eating deeply pleasurable.
Creativity & Experimentation
Cooking and mixing drinks can be a form of artistic expression. Experimenting with different ingredients, flavors, and techniques allows individuals to unleash their creativity in the kitchen.
Mindfulness and Enjoyment
Taking the time to prepare and enjoy a meal can promote mindfulness. Savoring each bite and being present during the act of eating can enhance overall enjoyment and appreciation of food.
Tradition and Ritual
Many cultures have specific food and drink traditions that mark important life events, holidays, and rituals. These practices help to create lasting memories and reinforce cultural heritage.
Exploration & Adventure
Trying new foods and beverages can be an exciting adventure. It encourages exploration and discovery, whether through travel or local dining experiences.
In summary, eating and drinking are not just about sustenance but are integral to our health, relationships, culture, and overall life experience.
*Dysphagia is a swallowing disorder that involves the mouth, throat and/or esophagus. Dysphagia may also be impacted by laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) and gastroesophageal reflux, as well as dry mouth, poor dentition and side-effects of medication.
How It Works
VoiceOver offers Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES). Call us today and schedule an appointment within two weeks!
When you visit our clinic, you’ll first undergo a swallowing evaluation. VoiceOver provides industry leading Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) procedures. While large health systems often have a wait time of a month or more for FEES, we can schedule you within two weeks.
During this initial assessment, we’ll take a detailed history of your symptoms, perform an oral motor exam to check the cranial nerve function that affects swallowing, and observe how you manage different foods and liquids. Our speech-language pathologist will guide you through these trials and provide a close evaluation of your swallowing abilities.
Depending on your needs, treatment might include strategies to improve strength and coordination for swallowing safety, strengthening exercises, or referrals to other services for further testing. Some of the techniques we use in therapy include biofeedback to guide exercise efforts, tongue strengthening with visual feedback, respiratory muscle training, and even stretches to improve the range of motion for swallowing muscles. Our team is here to support you every step of the way to help you with your goal of swallowing with confidence and ease.
Conditions We Treat
- Hyperresponsive Larynx
- Inducible Laryngeal Obstruction
- Vocal Cord Dysfunction
- Paradoxical Vocal Fold Motion
- Chronic Cough and Throat Clearing
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea
- Shortness of Breath
FAQ: Swallowing Disorder Treatment
What is dysphagia?
Dysphagia is the medical term for difficulty with swallowing food or liquids. For some patients, this may only be a mild discomfort, while for others this may be the complete inability to swallow without coughing or choking. Dysphagia is a symptom of an underlying neurological or muscle coordination issue, often the result of a stroke or injury.
Is a swallowing evaluation painful?
A swallowing evaluation, medically known as a Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES), involves a thin scope entering through your nose to see your throat muscles. You’re awake during the process, and we use a numbing spray to ease discomfort. While you likely will feel some pressure, many of our patients say the FEES is easier than taking a COVID test.
Can swallowing disorders be cured?
Swallowing disorders are treatable. This is a better way to think about the process, as a “cure” won’t happen like flipping an on-off switch. At VoiceOver, we help patients with exercises to strengthen swallowing muscles and learn new coordinated, adaptive techniques to significantly improve swallowing function.
Can you treat dysphagia via virtual telehealth appointments?
Yes! While initial swallowing evaluations are most conclusive in person, home-based therapy is effective for treating swallowing disorders. Our speech-language pathologists will guide you through strategies and strengthening exercises, as well as monitor your progress, whether you’re joining us in person in Rochester, New York or from home.
Patient Testimonials
