Swallowing Rehabilitation
Swallowing Rehabilitation
A swallowing evaluation is a medical assessment to diagnose difficulties with swallowing (dysphagia). It helps identify the cause of swallowing problems and guides treatment to prevent complications like choking, malnutrition, or aspiration pneumonia. Here’s a concise overview of swallowing rehabilitation.
Functional Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES)
This is a diagnostic procedure used to assess swallowing function, particularly in patients with dysphagia (swallowing difficulties). It involves using a flexible fiberoptic endoscope passed through the nose to visualize the pharynx and larynx before, during, and after swallowing.
FEES evaluates the following -
Swallowing mechanics (pharyngeal phase).
Aspiration risk (whether food/liquid enters the airway).
Residue after swallowing (indicating poor clearance).
Sensory function (response to stimuli).
Effectiveness of compensatory strategies (e.g., chin tuck, head turn).
Swallowing Therapy
This refers to a range of rehabilitative and compensatory techniques designed to improve swallowing function, reduce aspiration risk, and enhance nutritional intake in patients with dysphagia. The approach depends on the underlying cause (neurological, structural, or age-related) and the severity of impairment.