Review article

Dysphagia: an overlooked symptom and the role of a speech-language pathologist

Dinah Vodanović ; University hospital center Zagreb, Clkinic of neurology, department of cerebrovascular diseases with intensive care unit
Tomislav Radošević ; Faculty of education and rehabilitation Zagreb
Zdravko Kolundžić ; General county hospital Požega

Abstract

Dysphagia or swallowing difficulty occurs mostly after structural or neurological disorders and/or disease. Difficulties with oral intake of liquids and solids leads to malnutrition, dehydration and aspiration pneumonia, which in some unrecognized and untreated cases can lead to a fatal outcome. Understanding dysphagia brings us closer to a quicker identification, consequently enables us to prevent further complications and brings us closer to the right diagnostic and treatment procedures. A speech-language pathologist works closely with other professionals during the process of prevention, diagnostics and treatment of dysphagia.

Keywords

dysphagia; diagnostics; treatment; terminology; scope of practice; deglutition disorder

Hrčak ID:

242915

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/242915

Publication date:

24.8.2020.

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