About
Dysphagia

What are the signs & symptoms of dysphagia?

When an individual has trouble swallowing, it may show up in different ways. The following is a list of some of the signs and symptoms that may be associated with dysphagia:

Physical signs & symptoms:

• Difficulty starting a swallow or needing several attempts to swallow a mouthful
• Choking or coughing while eating or drinking
• Food or drink going into the nose or windpipe
• Food or drink leaking out of the mouth when eating or drinking
• Troubles swallowing saliva, possibly leading to drooling
• Significant amounts of food left in the mouth or throat after swallowing
• Gurgly or wet-sounding voice after swallowing
• Painful swallowing
• Frequent chest infections or aspiration pneumonia
• Weight loss related to eating and drinking less
• The feeling of food being stuck in your throat or chest

Behavioural signs & symptoms:

• Sudden or gradual change in eating and drinking habits
• Not wanting to eat
• Avoiding certain foods and drinks
• Social isolation and/or desire to eat alone