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Swallowing

Swallowing difficulties—also known as dysphagia—can affect people after a stroke, brain injury, head and neck cancer, or due to neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, ALS, or dementia. These issues can lead to discomfort, choking, aspiration (food or liquid entering the airway), or reduced quality of life. Swallowing therapy focuses on restoring safe, efficient swallowing and making mealtimes more manageable and enjoyable.​

Helpful Info About Swallowing Therapy

1. What are some signs of swallowing difficulties?

  • Coughing or choking during meals

  • Feeling like food or pills are "stuck"

  • Wet or gurgly voice after eating or drinking

  • Unexplained weight loss or dehydration

  • Frequent pneumonia or respiratory infections

  • Avoidance of certain foods or anxiety during meals

  • Taking a long time to eat or fatigue while eating

2. What does treatment include?

  • Therapy is personalized and works with your medical team.

  • Starts with an evaluation of how you swallow, sometimes using medical imaging.

  • Includes exercises to strengthen swallowing muscles.

  • Teaches safe swallowing techniques like posture and pacing.

  • May suggest changes to food and drink textures for safety and comfort.

  • Provides support during meals and trains caregivers to help you eat safely and independently at home.

3. Who can benefit from swallowing therapy?

  • Individuals recovering from stroke or brain injury affecting muscle control and coordination

  • Those with Parkinson’s disease or other movement disorders impacting swallowing

  • People with ALS, MS, or other progressive neurological conditions that weaken swallowing muscles

  • Patients with head and neck cancer or who have undergone related treatments

  • Older adults experiencing age-related swallowing changes (presbyphagia)

  • Individuals dealing with long COVID or post-ventilator dysphagia after severe illness

speech therapy for adults Orlando Florida
speech therapy for adults Orlando Florida
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Making Mealtimes Safe, Enjoyable, and Meaningful

Therapy is personalized and may include real-world practice like eating during sessions, reviewing menus, or working on swallowing in everyday settings. Whether the goal is to enjoy a favorite meal or feel confident eating with others, therapy supports safety, dignity, and quality of life.

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