A swallowing disorder, also known as dysphagia, refers to difficulties in swallowing food, liquids, or saliva. This condition can occur at different stages of the swallowing process, including the oral phase (chewing and forming a cohesive bolus), the pharyngeal phase (initiating the swallow reflex and moving the bolus through the throat), and the esophageal phase (transferring the bolus from the throat to the stomach).

There are various causes of swallowing disorders, including:

• Neurological Conditions: Conditions such as stroke, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and other neurological disorders can affect the nerves and muscles involved in swallowing.
• Structural Abnormalities: Conditions like esophageal strictures, tumors, or other abnormalities can impede the normal swallowing process.
• Muscular Disorders: Conditions that affect the muscles involved in swallowing, such as myasthenia gravis or muscular dystrophy, can lead to dysphagia.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Chronic acid reflux can damage the esophagus and lead to swallowing difficulties.
• Aging: As people age, the muscles and nerves involved in swallowing may weaken, increasing the risk of dysphagia.
• Medications: Some medications can cause dry mouth or affect muscle function, contributing to swallowing difficulties.

Common symptoms of dysphagia include coughing or choking while eating, a sensation of food getting stuck in the throat, regurgitation, unintentional weight loss, and recurrent respiratory infections due to aspiration (inhalation of food or liquid into the airways).

Treatment for swallowing disorders depends on the underlying cause. It may involve dietary modifications, swallowing exercises, medications, or, in severe cases, surgical interventions. Speech-language pathologists play a crucial role in the assessment and management of dysphagia, providing therapy to improve swallowing function.