Archives

Cough…Is it Strong Enough?

May 1, 2023 by Ashley Zhinin.
This resource explains the physiological process of a cough, how to measure cough strength, and why an adequate peak expiratory flow rate is important.
This content is only available to members.

Dysphagia and Parkinson’s Disease

April 1, 2023 by Ashley Zhinin.
Swallowing problems are common for people with Parkinson’s disease. However, it is underreported in the early stages. This handout explains the swallowing symptoms people with Parkinson’s disease can experience.
This content is only available to members.

Comparing a Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study and Esophagram

April 1, 2023 by Ashley Zhinin.
A Videofluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS) and esophagram are helpful tools for evaluating a person’s swallowing function. This handout explains the similarities and differences to help determine which one may be more appropriate.
This content is only available to members.

Saliva Anatomy and Function

March 1, 2023 by Ashley Zhinin.
Saliva is necessary for supporting swallowing, digestion, and teeth protection. Three salivary glands produce one to two liters of the body’s daily saliva. Video on how to use this resource: Nascimento, D., Carmona, J., Mestre, T., Ferreira, J. J., & Guimarães, I. (2021). Drooling rating scales in Parkinson’s disease: A systematic review. Parkinsonism & Related […]
This content is only available to members.

IDDSI Level 6 (Soft and Bite-Sized)

January 1, 2023 by Ashley Zhinin.
The International Dysphagia Diet Initiative (IDDSI) level six is for modified solids called “Soft and Bite-Sized.” This material provides information for patients and their caregivers on this consistency’s characteristics, the reasoning for recommendation/need for this consistency, ways to test this consistency at home, and helpful recommendations for preparation.
This content is only available to members.

Determining the Risk of Aspiration

December 1, 2022 by Ashley Zhinin.
For healthy people, the protective system within the lungs can stay healthy even with trace amounts of aspiration. For people with dysphagia, there are many factors to consider when determining their risk for aspiration. This resource explores these factors.
This content is only available to members.

Sjogren’s Syndrome and Dysphagia

October 1, 2022 by Ashley Zhinin.
Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that causes dry mouth, which can lead to dysphagia with reduced saliva production. This handout explains more about this disorder and provides some swallowing strategies to consider.
This content is only available to members.

Dynamic Imaging Grade of Swallowing Toxicity (DIGEST) Scale

October 1, 2022 by Ashley Zhinin.
The Dynamic Imaging Grade of Swallowing Toxicity (DIGEST) Scale was created to generate a measure of pharyngeal dysphagia as a toxicity endpoint. This material explains its background and how to determine safety and efficiency grades to obtain a global rating of pharyngeal swallowing function.
This content is only available to members.