Easy Read Module Dysphagia (Swallowing Difficulties)

 

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1. What is Dysphagia?

Dysphagia means difficulty swallowing.

This can include problems with:

• Food

• Drinks

• Tablets / medication

• Saliva

Some people feel like food is stuck in their throat or chest.

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2. Who Can Have Dysphagia?

Dysphagia can affect many people, including those with:

• Neurological conditions (brain or nerve conditions)

• Learning disabilities

• Developmental conditions

• Physical disabilities

• Muscle conditions

• Head or neck illnesses

• Older age

Not everyone with a disability has dysphagia — but risk can be higher.

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3. Common Signs

Signs may include:

• Coughing when eating or drinking

• Choking or gagging

• Food sticking in throat

• Pain when swallowing

• Wet or gurgly voice after eating

• Drooling

• Weight loss

• Chest infections

These signs should always be checked by a professional.

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4. Causes of Dysphagia

Dysphagia is usually a symptom (a sign of another condition).

Neurological causes

• Stroke

• Parkinson’s

• Dementia

• Brain injury

Developmental causes

• Cerebral palsy

• Genetic syndromes

• Autism (in some cases)

Physical causes

• Tumors or cancers

• Scar tissue

• Narrowing of the esophagus

Muscle causes

• Muscle weakness

• Autoimmune conditions

Other causes

• Acid reflux

• Ageing

• Medication side effects

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5. Why Dysphagia is Serious

Swallowing problems can lead to:

• Choking

• Food going into lungs (aspiration)

• Pneumonia

• Dehydration

• Malnutrition

This is why assessments are important.

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6. Assessment & Support

Support may involve:

• Speech & Language Therapist (SLT) / Speech Pathologist

• Swallowing assessment

• Food texture changes

• Thickened drinks

• Eating posture support

• Mealtime care plans

Hospitals and care settings follow swallowing safety guidelines.

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Easy Read Reflection Section

Life Experience Link

Some people develop dysphagia due to lumps, growths, or cancers in the throat or neck.

Early treatment and surgery can improve swallowing and health outcomes.

Regular monitoring is important if someone has had surgery in this area.

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Knowledge Check Questions

Level 1 – Basic

1. What does dysphagia mean?

2. Name one sign of swallowing difficulty.

3. Can dysphagia affect drinking as well as eating?

4. Who helps assess swallowing problems?

5. Why can dysphagia be dangerous?

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Level 2 – Understanding

6. Name two disability groups where dysphagia is more common.

7. What is aspiration?

8. Give one physical cause of dysphagia.

9. Why might older adults develop swallowing problems?

10. How can food be changed to make swallowing safer?

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Level 3 – Reflection / Discussion

11. Why is it important to report choking or coughing at meals?

12. How might dysphagia affect mental health or confidence?

13. What support should staff provide at mealtimes?

14. Why are swallowing assessments important after surgery or illness?