What Is Dysphagia? Symptoms, Causes & How Speech Pathology Can Help

What is dysphagia?

Dysphagia (pronounced dis-fay-ja) is the medical term for difficulty holding food in the mouth, chewing, or swallowing. It can occur at any age and may be temporary or permanent. Dysphagia increases the risk of aspiration—when food, fluids, or saliva enter the lungs—potentially leading to chest infections.

What causes dysphagia?

Dysphagia can have many causes, including:

• Stroke
• Dementia
• Neurological conditions (e.g. Parkinson’s, Motor Neuron Disease, Multiple Sclerosis)
• Poor dentition (e.g. missing teeth or poorly fitting dentures)
• Structural or mechanical abnormalities (e.g. oesophageal webbing, cricopharyngeal bar)
• Poor general health
• Ageing

Signs and symptoms

Dysphagia symptoms can vary in severity and type, depending on the individual. Common signs include:

• Coughing during or after eating – may indicate food or fluid has entered the airway
• Choking – a partial or complete airway blockage
• Frequent chest infections – may result from aspiration of food or bacteria
• Throat clearing during or up to 30 minutes after eating
• Gurgly or moist-sounding voice
• Shortness of breath while eating or drinking
• Food left in the mouth or cheeks after meals
• Increased body temperature 30 minutes after eating
• Drooling or food spilling from the mouth
• Dehydration or malnutrition – due to fear or avoidance of eating

Source: McCarron, 2022

How speech pathologists help with dysphagia

Speech Pathologists are qualified to assess and manage dysphagia.

Assessment
They begin by collecting a detailed medical history and asking you to perform oral movement and speech tasks. You’ll also trial different food and fluid textures to see how you manage them. If needed, they may refer you for further imaging such as a Videofluoroscopy Swallow Study (a swallowing X-ray).

Treatment and Management
Based on the assessment, your Speech Pathologist may:

• Recommend diet and fluid modifications following IDDSI guidelines
• Suggest posture or positioning techniques during mealtimes
• Provide education on safe swallowing strategies
• Refer to your GP if further medical management or tube feeding is required (e.g. NG or PEG tube)

Source: Stroke Foundation, 2022

When Should I See a Speech Pathologist?

If you or someone you care for is showing signs of difficulty swallowing or chewing, early intervention is key. You don’t need a referral to book an appointment.

Some complications, such as aspiration pneumonia, can be life-threatening if not managed properly.

Book an initial consultation online

Safe Swallowing Strategies

To reduce risk during meals, consider the following:

• Eat in a quiet, distraction-free environment
• Sit fully upright (90°) during and 30 minutes after meals
• Take small bites and sips
• Chew food thoroughly
• Avoid talking while eating
• Always follow the prescribed texture and consistency guidelines provided by your Speech Pathologist

Your therapist will also provide advice on how to test and prepare meals in line with IDDSI standards.

Related Services

Book an Appointment

Adult Speech Pathology

Speech Pathology Assessments

References

McCarron, M. 2022. Eating, drinking & swallowing. [online]. MDN Australia. Available at: https://www.mndaustralia.org.au/mnd-connect/living-with-mnd/eating-drinking-swallowing

Stroke Foundation. 2022. Swallowing problems after stroke fact sheet. [online]. Stroke Foundation – Australia. Available at: https://strokefoundation.org.au/what-we-do/for-survivors-and-carers/stroke-resources-and-fact-sheets/swallowing-problems-after-stroke-fact-sheet