What to Expect from a Swallow Consultation

By: Kayla Suarez, MS, SLP-C

When swallowing issues are first noticed at home, the primary care doctor is the generally a patient’s first point of contact. When discussing a swallow problem with the doctor, it is helpful to have the following information prepared, so that you can provide the most powerful description of what is happening during mealtimes. A consult may be placed to a swallowing specialist, such as a speech-language pathologist or an occupational therapist.

During a swallow evaluation, a specialist will ask questions regarding the swallow dysfunction and conduct a brief meal trial to observe the problem in the clinic.  If ordered by a doctor (often at the suggestion of the swallow specialist) an assessment called a Video Swallow Study sometimes called a Modified Barium Swallow may be performed. This involves taking food or liquid mixed with barium, a radio contrast, under fluoroscopy, or a video x-ray machine. This is a non-invasive procedure and usually takes 45 minutes or less.

This assessment is the gold standard of swallowing evaluations because it provides the most information. From this x-ray video, a trained specialist can identify the disruptions in the swallow pattern that are involved in the dysphagia. During this assessment, clinicians can observe to see if any swallow maneuvers are beneficial. It also gives the clinician information to determine what type of swallow exercises would be suited for the patient’s individual dysphagia.

After the assessment has been completed the swallowing specialist will give their impressions of the swallow function to the patient and a copy of the report to the primary doctor. Recommendations regarding the texture, position, and rehabilitative exercises may be offered. Exercises are suggested to help recover or maintain swallowing abilities, not unlike recommendations from a physical therapist. It is important to clarify any questions regarding the exercises or diet modifications with your healthcare provider. The ultimate goal is eating safely and preserving swallow function while keeping mealtime enjoyable.

Kayla Suarez received her MS in Speech-Language Pathology from Mass General Hospital Institute of Health Professions. She has a deep interest in dysphagia and food. You can contact Kayla at kaysuarez@gmail.com or visit her website at dysdine.com.