How is dysphagia managed and treated? — Expert Video

Dr. Rosemary Martino, senior scientist of the Department of Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Toronto, explains that dysphagia is managed and treated using two main approaches: compensatory strategies and active treatment. Compensatory strategies provide short-term support, such as sitting upright, taking small bites or sips, modifying food textures, or using techniques like a chin tuck to help food move safely to the stomach. Treatment focuses on strengthening the muscles used for swallowing through targeted exercises that treat and change the swallow. She also highlights the growing role of prehabilitation, which involves starting swallowing therapy before head and neck cancer surgery. Dr. Jonathan Irish adds that treating underlying causes, such as head and neck cancer, can also improve swallowing outcomes.

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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.