Updated December 30, 2014.

Dysphagia is an impairment in the ability to swallow due to strokes and other injuries to the central and peripheral nervous systems. Dysphagia can be benign and rapidly curable, but it can also be rapidly progressive and even deadly.

How Do We Swallow?

Swallowing is a complicated neurological reflex that involves a well orchestrated sequence of three major phases. These begin in the mouth with the coordinated action of muscles involved with chewing and the formation of a food bolus, a small and soft mass of food.

This is followed by the transfer of this food bolus towards the pharynx, where it triggers an automatic sequence of movements of several small muscles that then work together to channel the food into the esophagus, the "food pipe" which finally brings food to the stomach. All this must occur while preventing food or liquid particles from entering the lungs.

Swallowing And The Brain

The brain is a complex organ in which different areas are designated for the control of different functions -- and swallowing is no exception. In fact, there are multiple brain areas dedicated to the control of swallowing. Damage to one or more of these areas, as can happen with stroke, can lead to dysphagia.

Dysphagia Explained

Dysphagia can result from several medical and non-medical conditions, some of which occur more than others. Stroke, for instance, is common, while Guillain Barre syndrome is much more rare. Dysphagia can be harmless, but it can also have detrimental consequences.

How Is Dysphagia Evaluated?

Dysphagia can show up in your life after a stroke, but it can also do so unexpectedly.

Nonetheless, finding out exactly why you're having problems swallowing is critical to the formulation of a treatment plan.

Dysphagia Therapy

Dysphagia therapy is key for the recovery of swallowing function, particularly after stroke. As stated, dysphagia can be rapidly cured, but a feeding tube may be necessary if a case persists and worsens. Learning about the importance of extensive and intense dysphagia therapy, and about a variety of exercises designed to help you regain the ability to swallow, can get you acquainted with what's to come.

When Is a Feeding Tube Really Necessary?

Sometimes dysphagia is so severe that it requires the temporary, or even permanent, placement of a feeding tube. Although at first the decision to agree to have a feeding tube placed by your doctor might seem straight forward, it rarely is. In fact, deciding whether or not you should agree to the placement of a feeding tube (for you or someone else) can be an extremely difficult task. Talk with your doctor, or your loved one's physician (if you're a caretaker), about the possibility of this being a necessity.