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Phone: (480) 991-6560 |
Scottsdale Office: 6865 E. Becker Ln. Ste 101 Scottsdale, AZ 85254 |
Chandler Office: 932 W. Chandler Blvd. Ste 3 Chandler, AZ 85225 |
Feeding and Swallowing Disorders
| Feeding and Swallowing Disorders in Children: Pediatric swallowing and feeding disorders are seen in 25-35% of normally developing children and 50-70% of children born premature or with chronic medical conditions. What’s the difference between a feeding disorder and swallowing disorder? Swallowing disorders are often the result of structural weakness or dysfunction and result in difficulty with the actual act of moving food from the mouth to the stomach. Whereas, a feeding disorder is often behaviorally motivated and results in the refusal of or an aversion to food. These conditions can be present in people of all ages but are most commonly seen in the pediatric and geriatric populations. Feeding and swallowing disorders can occur concurrently or independently of one another. Swallowing Disorders Swallowing disorders, also commonly referred to as Dysphagia, can result from decreased function of the oral, pharyngeal or esophageal structures. Signs & Symptoms of Swallowing Disorders:
Swallowing disorders can be identified and treated by a Speech-Language Pathologist. In some cases a Modified Barium Swallow Study or Video Fluoroscopic Swallow Study is recommended to further assess the swallowing mechanism. Treatment of swallowing difficulties focuses on identifying a cause, determining the safest diet, and improving swallowing skills. Treatment may include altering food or liquid consistencies, proper positioning, improving muscle strength, tone, and coordination, and teaching compensatory strategies. Feeding Disorders Feeding disorders differ from swallowing disorders in that they are often behavior based. However, feeding disorders often occur concurrently or as the result of a swallowing disorder. For example, a child who was fed via a feeding tube may be orally averse and therefore present with a feeding disorder. Signs and Symptoms of Feeding Disorders:
Feeding disorders can be diagnosed and treated by a Speech-Language Pathologist. Treatment will focus on identifying the cause of the disorder, developing a plan to address both behavioral and physical concomitants, and educating the family and caregivers. Additional Information and Links: Speak with your pediatrician about any concerns you may have regarding your child’s feeding and swallowing habits so the proper referrals can be made. Other professionals who may be involved in the detection or treatment of your child’s feeding or swallowing disorder include:
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