What is dysphagia?

Dysphagia is a term which means “difficulty swallowing”. This is a disorder which can occur with many different diseases and conditions. The symptoms and signs of dysphagia can range from subtle to overt. Dysphagia can lead to malnutrition and aspiration pneumonia. One method of evaluating the dysphagic patient is utilizing videofluoroscopy to examine the swallow under x-ray. It is also known as the modified barium swallow.

For more information on dysphagia, visit the following Dysphagia educational websites:

• Dysphagia Resource Center
• Dysphagia-National Institute of Health