Understanding Dysphagia

Abstract

Feeding is described a developmental process that, when interrupted, leads to malnutrition, failure to thrive, poor growth, delayed development, loss of overall health and well-being, as well as poor academic achievement and psychological problems. Oral sensorimotor function, swallowing and respiration coordination, are important processes that relate to the development of normal feeding, swallowing, and speech motor skills. Therefore, the development of functional, safe feeding is extremely important. The purpose of this chapter is to discuss dysphagia in the paediatric population, specifically in the school setting. The chapter will focus on the following aspects: the anatomy of a normal swallow; the various types of dysphagia; the causes and diagnosis of dysphagia, with the strategies for management and support; how to support learners with special needs; as well as classroom accommodations that can be implemented. The chapter ends with a look into dysphagia within an African context, along with contextual issues and the burden of disease.