Feeding & Swallowing Program
A feeding disorder is a condition that makes it difficult for a person to eat, drink, or get adequate nutrition in a typical and safe way. A swallowing disorder, also called dysphagia, is when an individual has difficulty moving food or liquid from their mouth, down their throat and into their stomach. This can make eating and drinking uncomfortable. In some cases, it can even put you or your child at risk for choking or inhaling food into the lungs. Early evaluation and treatment are key to helping your child eat safely and comfortable.
Common Symptoms of Feeding & Swallowing Disorders
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Poor latch to breast or bottle
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Painful latch while breastfeeding
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Infant fatigue during feedings
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Coughing, gagging, or choking while eating or drinking
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Feeling as if food is "stuck" in your throat
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Difficulty transitioning to purees or solids
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Difficulty chewing or moving food around in the mouth
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Drooling or inability to manage saliva
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Arching the back or turning away during feeding
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Refusing foods or being upset at mealtimes
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Taking longer than 30 minutes to eat or drink
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Weight loss or poor weight gain
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Oral Residue after a swallow
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Pocketing of food in cheeks during or after mealtimes
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Reflux
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Difficulty gaining weight
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History of chronic lung problems (ex: aspiration pneumonia)
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Wet or gurgley voice during or after mealtimes
Who can have Feeding & Swallowing Problems?
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Those who have tongue-tie, lip-tie, cheek-tie
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Premature birth or low birth weight
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Cleft palate or other structural differences
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Neurologic conditions (i.e., stroke, Parkinson's, cerebral palsy)
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Developmental delays or autism spectrum disorder
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GERD
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Head and neck cancer or radiation therapy
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Age-related muscle weakening
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Post-surgical complications or injury