How is dysphagia diagnosed? — Expert Video

Dr. Jonathan Irish, professor and head of the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at the University of Toronto, explains that diagnosing dysphagia often involves a team of specialists, including otolaryngologists, or ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists, speech-language pathologists, and gastroenterologists. He describes several tests used to evaluate swallowing problems, including a videofluoroscopy swallowing study, which uses X-rays to observe swallowing, and FEES (fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing), where a small camera is passed through the nose to examine the throat during swallowing. He also discusses manometry, a test that measures muscle strength and coordination during swallowing. Dr. Irish notes that while some tests may feel uncomfortable, they are important for diagnosing and treating dysphagia.

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Introduction to Dysphagia — Animation

Introduction to Dysphagia — Slide Show

Expert Videos

1. What is dysphagia, and what causes it?

2. How do we swallow?

3. What are the signs and symptoms of dysphagia?

4. What are some common problems that may develop because of dysphagia?

5. How is dysphagia diagnosed?

6. How is dysphagia managed and treated?

This educational activity has been developed by the University Health Network Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, the University of Toronto Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, the University of Toronto Department of Speech-Language Pathology, the Swallowing Lab, and Mechanisms in Medicine Inc.

All content is developed independently by the University Health Network Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, the University of Toronto Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, the University of Toronto Department of Speech-Language Pathology, the Swallowing Lab, and Mechanisms in Medicine Inc., with the assistance of an Expert Faculty group; funders are allowed no influence on the content of You And Dysphagia: An Animated Patient^® Guide to Dysphagia.

Disclaimer: The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor about any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The visuals provided are meant to be representations only. No specific brand is being promoted or endorsed.

This website is part of the Animated Patient^® series developed by Mechanisms in Medicine Inc., to provide highly visual formats of learning for patients to improve their understanding, make informed decisions, and partner with their healthcare professionals for optimal outcomes.