Several diseases, conditions, or surgical interventions can result in swallowing problems.General signs may include:
- coughing during or right after eating or drinking
- wet or gurgling sounding voice during or after eating or drinking
- extra effort or time needed to chew or swallow
- food or liquid leaking from the mouth or getting stuck in the mouth
- recurring pneumonia or chest congestion after eating
- weight loss or dehydration from not being able to eat enough
As a result, adults may have:
- poor nutrition or dehydration
- risk of aspiration (food or liquid entering the airway), which can lead to pneumonia and chronic lung disease
- less enjoyment of eating or drinking
- embarrassment or isolation in social situations involving eating
← ENT Frequently Asked Questions