Dysphagia in Persons With Communication Disorders

Abstract

Dysphagia (swallowing disorders) is any difficulty in swallowing that interferes with safe and adequate intake of nutrition and hydration requirements in an individual. It may present itself as a symptom of another underlying medical condition or as a consequence of surgical and pharmacological treatment. While in few, dysphagia resolves itself as a transient phase; in the rest, dysphagia demands immediate treatment. It may be seen as an associated dysfunction in persons with communication disorders (PsWCD) as speech and swallowing functions share many neuro-musculo-skeletal structures at the oral, pharyngeal, and laryngeal level along with their central control processes. This chapter aims at introducing the readers to the signs and symptoms of dysphagia in PsWCD. This is expected to guide the team of professionals working with PsWCDin identification and making appropriate referrals to the concerned professional for effective intervention. This further can accelerate the progress and prognosis of PsWCD towards improved health, development, and quality of life.