Did you know that humans complete a swallow about 900 times every single day? And did you know there are over 20 muscles that need to coordinate perfectly for just one swallow?  

Swallowing function is something many of us take for granted until it becomes difficult. Whether due to aging, neurological conditions, or other health issues, swallowing difficulty, known as ‘dysphagia’, can significantly impact your daily life and possibly your nutrition.

What is Dysphagia?

Dysphagia is the term used to describe any type of difficulty with swallowing, in any stage of the swallow. For example, if someone was missing some or all of their teeth, it would be very difficult for them to chew tough/crunchy foods. As this difficulty is present in the ‘oral cavity’ (the mouth), we would label this as ‘oral dysphagia’. Difficulties can occur due to reduced strength in the face, lips, tongue or throat muscles and can occur due to anatomical differences.  Symptoms may include coughing or choking while eating and drinking, frequent coughing or throat clearing after meals, a sensation of food getting stuck, or recurrent respiratory infections.

Tips for Improving Swallowing Function

There are several things you can do to maintain or improve your swallowing skills:  

  1. Positioning
    Maintaining a good posture during meals can make swallowing easier. Sit upright with your head slightly forward and chin tucked. This helps to align the throat and reduces the risk of choking. 

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  2. LifestyleAdjustments
    Are you staying well hydrated? Maintaining adequate hydration is crucial for keeping the throat and oesophagus moist and functioning properly. On top of this, it is recommended you avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Not only are these likely to impact your overall health, but they can also lead to dehydration which can lead to impaired swallowing function.

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  3. Dietary Adjustments

    If you are finding it difficult to chew certain foods, or perhaps often find that crumbs get caught in your throat, opt for softer foods. For example, instead of eating raw carrot sticks, try steaming them so they are softer to bite into. If you find that eating dry crackers and bread is difficult, you might want to break them up into small pieces and have them with something soft and moist such as a smooth dip. Thin liquids (such as water or tea) can move very quickly and may ‘fall down’ into a person’s airway, causing aspiration. For some people, thickened fluids can help to alleviate this issue. This decision is best made in consultation with a speech pathologist.
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  4. Swallowing Techniques

    There are several techniques that can be trialled to improve swallowing function. Some of these techniques are designed to compensate for swallowing difficulties, while some of them are designed to increase the strength and coordination of muscles used in swallowing. One compensatory technique is known as the ‘chin-tuck’. To do this, you tuck your chin slightly downward toward your chest while swallowing. This helps to close off the airway and directs food or liquid into the oesophagus. A different technique aimed at strengthening the swallow by is called the ‘Shaker Exercise’. This is performed without food in the mouth and involves a person laying on their back and lifting their head so they can see their toes. This movement can assist in strengthening muscles in and around the throat. Decisions around suitable swallowing techniques are best made in consultation with a speech pathologist.
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  5. Medication and Other Treatment Options

    Depending on the underlying cause of dysphagia, your healthcare provider may want to trial medications or complete further investigation of your swallowing. There are many ways to tackle swallowing problems, even including electrical stimulation and prosthetics. It is important to follow the guidance of your healthcare practitioner closely. 


When to Seek Help

If you experience persistent swallowing difficulties, or if they worsen over time, it's essential to seek evaluation and treatment from a healthcare professional, such as your General Practitioner or a Speech Pathologist. Signs and symptoms that may indicate you need a health check-up and a swallowing assessment. Symptoms include persistent and/or worsening swallowing difficulties, weight loss, regurgitation after eating/drinking, frequent chest infections or you find yourself frequently avoiding meals with friends and family.

Improving your swallowing function can significantly enhance your quality of life and ensure proper nutrition and hydration. By incorporating these tips and techniques into your daily routine, you can take proactive steps toward better swallowing health. Remember, each person's condition is unique, so consulting with a healthcare provider is crucial for personalized guidance.

If you have any concerns with your swallowing, or the swallowing function of someone you know, feel free to contact Hanrahan Health to arrange an assessment. Contact: admin@hanrahanhealth.com.au or (02) 4610 8026.

The following websites offer further helpful information about swallowing and dysphagia:

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