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Dysphagia (dis-fay-juh)

Swallowing difficulties are known as dysphagia. Dysphagia may result from a number of different conditions, diseases and surgical procedures. Dysphagia may lead to malnutrition, dehydration, embarrassment, and increased risk of aspiration which can lead to chest infection (pneumonia).

When to see a Speech-Language Therapist


If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the following, a Speech-Language Therapist (SLT) may be able to help:
  • coughing during or after eating or drinking

  • wet or gurgly sounding voice during or after eating or drinking

  • extra effort or time to chew/swallow
  • spilling food/liquid from the mouth
  • choking

  • pain when swallowing 
  • avoiding eating certain foods

How can our Speech-Language Therapists help?

Positioning - Positioning is important for eating and drinking. SLTs can advise on how to position a person to support their swallowing.
Modified diets - If normal foods and fluids are difficult, a change in diet may make eating and drinking easier. An SLT can work with you to identify which foods/fluids are easiest to manage. We can also provide advice when eating and drinking are no longer safe.
Education - Our SLTs are available to provide education to family and carers of those with swallowing difficulties.
Equipment - We can also advise on specialist cutlery or cups to make eating and drinking easier.

Making Thickened Fluids

Related links

What is a videofluoroscopy? American Speech and Hearing Association.
Standards for texture modified foods and fluids
The EATS Clinic
The Pure Food Co
The Rose Centre: Swallowing Rehabilitation Research Laboratory

Professional Registration

Our Speech-Language Therapists' are registered with the New Zealand Speech-Language Therapists' Association (NZSTA).
Conditions affecting Eating and Drinking
  • Stroke (CVA
  • Parkinson's Disease
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Dementia
  • Motor Neurone Disease
  • Huntington's Disease
  • Muscular Dystrophy
  • Intellectual Disability
  • Developmental Delay
  • Chromosomal Disorders
  • Dyspraxia
  • Autism
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Brain/head injuries
  • Recovery from surgery
  • Oral cancer
  • Ageing

Information to download

Eating and Drinking Difficulties Brochure