What to tell us about eating and drinking
Difficulty swallowing is also called dysphagia. It can occur with stroke, Parkinson's disease, ALS, and other conditions. Your medical history and the changes you notice help guide the evaluation.
- Coughing, choking, or a change in voice around meals.
- Food feeling stuck or meals taking much longer.
- Difficulty managing food, liquids, or medicines.
What happens at a swallowing appointment?
We begin by discussing your concerns, current eating and drinking, and any testing or advice you have already received. The evaluation helps identify what can be addressed in the clinic and whether further assessment is needed.
Some questions need an instrumental swallowing study, such as an X-ray-based study or a camera examination. Your therapist can discuss the need for outside testing and coordinate with your medical team.
A plan for your individual needs
Care may include education, selected swallowing work, mealtime strategies, and guidance for the people who help you. Recommendations depend on your assessment and may change over time.
Changing food textures, thickening drinks, or trying swallowing maneuvers on your own may be inappropriate. Follow the plan from your swallowing and medical team and bring questions to your visit.
Bring the information that helps us plan
Bring previous swallowing-study reports if available, your medication list, and any current food or drink instructions. Let the office know if a family member or caregiver will join you.
Call (443) 360-5527 to discuss an outpatient evaluation. If someone is choking and cannot breathe, call 911.
Common questions
Do I need swallowing problems to be severe before asking for help?
Discuss changes with your medical team when you notice them. An evaluation can help clarify the concern and the next step; symptoms alone do not tell us what is safe to eat or drink.
Can my caregiver attend?
Yes. Tell us who helps with meals or appointments. Including that person can make instructions and follow-up questions easier to manage.