Swallowing

Swallowing challenges greatly impact quality of life. In addition, difficulties with swallowing may put an individual at risk of aspiration which can be life threatening. 

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Signs of a swallowing disorder may include:

  • Coughing during or after eating or drinking 

  • Wet or gurgly sounding voice after eating or drinking 

  • Extra effort or time required to eat or drink 

  • Food leaking from the mouth or pocketing in the mouth 

  • Recurring chest infection 

  • Weight loss and/or dehydration

We can provide the following services to assist with swallowing efficiency and safety: 

  • Staff education on ways to support swallow safety 

  • Safe swallowing strategies 

  • Swallowing rehabilitation exercises 

  • Compensatory positions 

  • Diet modification recommendations, taking a quality of life approach