Swallowing disorders can result from stroke, head and neck cancer, Parkinson’s disease, ALS, and many other conditions. Patients may also have conditions such as globus sensation (“lump in the throat”), zenker’s diverticulum, and cricopharyngeal dysfunction. Swallowing disorders can lead to pneumonia and weight loss, and also have a severe impact on quality of life. At the Voice and Swallowing Disorders Center, our laryngologists work closely with a specialized team of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) to evaluate and treat your swallowing problem.  

Symptoms of Swallowing Disorders

Symptoms of a swallowing disorder, also known as dysphagia, may include: 

  • Choking on food, pills, or liquids 
  • Coughing during or immediately after eating or drinking 
  • Sensation of food or pills sticking in your throat  
  • Recurring pneumonia 
  • Unexplained weight loss 
  • Regurgitation, heartburn, or indigestion 

Swallowing Disorders Wake Forest Baptist Treats

Swallowing Disorders Evaluation and Treatment 

A thorough swallowing evaluation will involve a visit with a laryngologist and potentially an assessment with a dysphagia-specialized speech-language pathologist (SLP). Our multidisciplinary team frequently coordinates laryngology/SLP appointments same day to give you a comprehensive one-stop evaluation. The laryngologist and SLP will work with you to create an individualized plan of care. Your evaluation may include the following assessments: 

Following your evaluation, your laryngologist and SLP will discuss treatment options.