Tom Shortland – Dysphagia Following a Stroke

Part of my role as a speech therapist is to support in the assessment and rehabilitation of swallowing difficulties, a condition called dysphagia.

Problems with swallowing occur in around half of people following stroke. This can be a short or long term problem, leading to a range of difficulties such as discomfort when eating and drinking, increased risk of chest infections, choking and malnutrition.

I enjoy being able to support people through the process of regaining swallow function. This process takes time, and I work between acute hospital and community settings supporting these individuals. Management may consist of specific techniques or exercises, or a practical approach of identifying what a person is able to eat or drink safely at that time. 

Any issue with eating and drinking is often an emotive issue for patients. We are used to being able to eat and drink whatever we like, and most social occasions involve food and drink.

I work with patients and their families to find balance between safety as they rehabilitate and having them return to the regular things they enjoy.

This often runs alongside communication difficulties post-stroke, in which case I work to ensure that the views and preferences of people with difficulties in these areas are well-communicated and understood. I enjoy my work!