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How is dysphagia treated?
Therapy, smart strategies, food changes, and medical care — usually in combination.
Swallowing therapy
When exercises fit the cause of the problem, a speech-language pathologist may use them to target specific swallowing movements. The plan and timeline are different for each person and should be based on an evaluation.
Smart strategies
Small changes can make swallows safer for some people — head position, smaller bites, alternating food and drink. They do not work the same for everyone, so they should come from your own evaluation.
Food and drink changes
Sometimes textures are adjusted — softer foods or thicker drinks — using a worldwide standard called IDDSI. Because a change that helps one person may not help another, use the texture your swallowing or medical team recommends.
Medical treatments
Some causes need medical care: stretching a narrow spot in the food pipe, treating reflux, or surgery for structural problems. That is why finding the cause comes first.
Nutrition support
A dietitian can help you get enough calories, protein, and fluids while you work on the swallow — with fortified foods, supplements, and recipes that fit your texture needs.
Describe texture, difficulty, and symptoms for each item you choose. Free.
Talk with our teamQuestions are welcome. We will help you find the right visit.
The information on this site is educational and is not medical advice or a diagnosis. If you are choking or cannot breathe, call 911.