According to the American Speech and Hearing Association, Pediatric Dysphagia (aka feeding difficulties) occurs in 1% of children. This can be due to a variety of factors including, but not limited to, complex medical conditions, reflux, sensory issues, or structural abnormalities. Various signs/symptoms may occur during or around mealtime that may indicate a child has Pediatric Dysphagia. These signs/symptoms may include coughing before or after swallowing, breathing difficulties while eating/drinking, difficulty chewing food, refusing specific food textures/types, and increased length in mealtime (longer than 30 minutes). If a child has signs/symptoms of Pediatric Dysphagia, they should be assessed by a variety of professionals including Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) as well as other professionals depending on their needs. These additional professionals may include an Occupational Therapist, Nutritionist, Lactation Consultant, ENT, Psychologist, and GI specialist.
Here at Frederick SLP, we have staff members who are highly qualified to help children with Pediatric Dysphagia. An SLP will start with a comprehensive evaluation which will include asking about the child’s medical history and developmental information. The SLP will assess the child’s oral structures as well as complete a functional swallowing evaluation which will include watching the child eat and drink. Once the SLP has determined the child’s strengths and weaknesses, they will collaborate with the family to develop goals and a treatment plan for the child. The SLP will continue to work with the child and their family until their goals have been achieved.