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Dysphagia (swallowing problems) can be caused by a wide range of conditions including brain injury, stroke, or progressive disease. Our licensed speech therapists work with patients to help them improve the basic life function of eating.
A swallowing disorder can cause difficulty with biting, chewing, propelling (moving food through the mouth), swallowing, or a combination of the above. Dysphagia can include the following symptoms:
- Pain or coughing when swallowing.
- Coughing, choking and/or throat clearing after swallowing.
- Delay in swallowing.
- Residual food left in the mouth after swallowing.
- A wet, hoarse or strained voice after swallowing.
Upon referral by a physician – the patient’s own doctor or a member of our staff – dysphagia patients receive customized treatment that may include the following:
- A complete dysphagia evaluation performed by a Certified Speech and Language Pathologist.
- An explanation of the swallowing process and the patient’s current deficits in this area.
- A recommended course of treatment, decided in tandem with a team of St. Lawrence professionals.
- Diet modifications for each individual.
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