A review of evaluation findings and recommendations is a component of a comprehensive swallowing evaluation, as is the preparation of a report with a treatment plan for your medical record and the referring physician. Patients and family members are counseled regarding the nature of the swallowing problem, appropriate dietary modifications or compensatory strategies, and the possible need for swallowing therapy.
Realistic expectations will be discussed with the patient following the evaluation and during treatment. Therapy may emphasize the compensatory strategies necessary for the safest method of swallowing and/or exercises to maximize functioning. Therapy may involve the use of biofeedback via surface EMG or direct observation of the throat through endoscopy.
Swallowing treatment programs can vary from patient to patient as they are individualized to meet the patient's particular needs. The primary goal of therapy is to maintain good nutrition and hydration. Treatment is intended to develop as functional a swallowing mechanism as possible so that an individual can eat and drink safely by mouth. At times, a return to normal swallowing and eating patterns may not be possible.