dysphagia Archives – Page 8 of 21

The Effect of Obstructive Sleep Apnea on Swallowing Function

June 1, 2023 by Ashley Zhinin.

This resource explains how repeated episodes of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can affect a person’s swallow function.

This content is only available to members.

Environmental Swallowing Considerations for People with Dementia

May 1, 2023 by Ashley Zhinin.

There are many adjustments that care partners can implement to improve the feeding environment for people with dementia.

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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.

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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.

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Medication Swallow Strategies for People with Dysphagia

March 1, 2023 by Ashley Zhinin.

A spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down! Unless you have dysphagia! Here are some other ideas to consider when establishing a safe plan for PO intake of meds.

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Saliva Anatomy and Function

March 1, 2023 by Ashley Zhinin.

This resource helps explain the anatomy and function of saliva and how it supports swallowing, digestion, and oral health. Use it to connect symptoms like dry mouth or excess saliva to underlying conditions and improve patient understanding of dysphagia-related challenges. Video on how to use this resource:

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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.

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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.

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Foods to Avoid When Choosing Thickened Liquids as a Safety Precaution

November 1, 2022 by Ashley Zhinin.

Some foods can be unsafe for people who swallow thickened liquids better. This handout explains which foods have hidden dangers for these people to swallow.

This content is only available to members.