Swallowing and Swallowing Disorders

Question 1

What are some shared anatomical structures that are involved in Speech and Swallowing?

Answer 1

• Vocal tract (closer and opening for sounds, vocal cord vibration for speech)
• Velopharyngeal (closer and opening for sounds, closure for swallowing to protect the airway)
• Respiratory System (for speech and for cough reflux)

Question 2

What are the 4 phases of swallowing?

Answer 2

Anticipatory Phase, Oral Phase, Pharyngeal Phase, and the Esophageal Phase

Question 3

True or False, Oral Phase is a voluntary part of swallowing

Answer 3

TRUE

Question 4

Is the Pharyngeal phase voluntary or involuntary?

Answer 4

Involuntary

Question 5

The Esophageal Phase of swallowing lasts __-___ seconds

Answer 5

8-10 seconds

Question 6

Define Dysphagia

Answer 6

Trouble swallowing, can occur during any or all phases of the swallowing process

Question 7

What are the most common causes of Dysphagia?

Answer 7

• Neurological Damage (stroke, TBI)
• Laryngeal damage

Question 8

Treatment of Dysphagia may include:

Answer 8

• Modifying feeding environment
• Modifying physical position during eating
• Modifying food or beverage
• Oral motor exercises
• Surgical and medical management