Blog

Safe Swallowing

Montana Nuvoli
Certified Practising Speech Pathologist

Why Safe Swallowing Matters
Swallowing is something most of us do without even thinking about it. Every time we eat, drink, or even swallow our own saliva, our body is performing a complex series of coordinated muscle movements involving the mouth, throat, and oesophagus. However, when this process is disrupted, it can have serious consequences. Problems with swallowing—also known as dysphagia—can lead to significant health risks, reduced quality of life, and even life-threatening conditions.
The Hidden Dangers of Swallowing Difficulties
When swallowing doesn’t occur safely, food and drink can end up in the wrong place. Instead of travelling down the oesophagus (food pipe) to the stomach, it can enter the airway and travel to the lungs. This is known as aspiration, which can lead to pneumonia, choking and other severe complications. Aspiration pneumonia, in particular, is a serious concern. Research shows that individuals with dysphagia are at a significantly higher risk of developing pneumonia due to the inhalation of food or liquid into the lungs. A study published in The Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that aspiration pneumonia is one of the leading causes of hospitalisation and mortality in older adults with dysphagia.
Other signs of swallowing difficulties can include:
  • Coughing or choking while eating or drinking
  • Feeling like food is stuck in the throat
  • Unplanned weight loss or dehydration
  • Frequent chest infections
  • A wet or gurgly voice after eating or drinking
  • Avoidance of certain foods or drinks due to discomfort.
Who Can Experience Swallowing Difficulties?
Swallowing problems can affect people of all ages, but are most common in:
  • Older adults: Ageing naturally affects muscle strength and coordination, increasing the risk of dysphagia.
  • People with neurological conditions: Stroke, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, motor neurone disease and dementia can all interfere with the nerves and muscles responsible for swallowing.
  • Individuals with head and neck cancer: Cancer treatments such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy can impact swallowing function.
  • Premature babies and children with developmental disorders: Some infants and children with conditions such as cerebral palsy may have difficulty coordinating the swallowing process.
The Importance of Safe Swallowing
Safe swallowing is essential for maintaining overall health and wellbeing. It ensures that food and liquids reach the stomach without entering the airway, reducing the risk of malnutrition, dehydration and aspiration pneumonia. Research published in Dysphagia: The Official Journal of the Dysphagia Research Society highlights that individuals with untreated swallowing difficulties are at an increased risk of malnutrition and dehydration, which can lead to a weakened immune system, reduced muscle function and longer hospital stays. Malnutrition can also have cognitive effects, impacting concentration, memory and overall mental health. Beyond the physical risks, safe swallowing plays a critical role in maintaining independence and quality of life. Eating and drinking are not just about nutrition—they are deeply connected to social interactions, cultural traditions and personal enjoyment. People with dysphagia often experience anxiety and embarrassment while eating in social settings, which can lead to isolation and emotional distress.
What Can You Do to Promote Safe Swallowing?
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulty swallowing, seeking professional help is crucial. Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) specialise in assessing and managing swallowing disorders. They can provide tailored strategies, exercises and dietary modifications to ensure safer eating and drinking. Here are some general tips for safe swallowing:
  • Sit upright while eating and drinking: A proper posture can help direct food and liquid safely down the oesophagus.
  • Take small bites and sips: This reduces the risk of choking and aspiration.
  • Avoid distractions while eating: Talking or laughing while swallowing increases the likelihood of food entering the airway.
  • Chew food thoroughly before swallowing: Proper chewing helps with the breakdown of food and makes it easier to swallow.
  • Follow specific recommendations from healthcare professionals: This may include modified food textures or thickened liquids to improve safety.
Raising Awareness During Swallowing Awareness Week
Swallowing difficulties are often overlooked or misunderstood, but they affect millions of people worldwide. Swallowing Awareness Week serves as an important reminder to educate the public, healthcare professionals and caregivers about the risks associated with dysphagia and the importance of early intervention. Early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes and prevent complications. If you notice any signs of swallowing difficulties in yourself or a loved one, don’t hesitate to seek help. Timely assessment and management can make a life-changing difference. For more information, please contact us on 07 5647 6120, email info@qpah.com.au or visit trusted resources such as Speech Pathology Australia or the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Safe swallowing matters, and by raising awareness, we can help prevent complications and improve lives.