Speech

Aspiration is when something enters your airway or lungs by accident. It may be food, liquid, or some other material. This can cause serious health problems. Aspiration can happen when you have trouble swallowing normally. This is called dysphagia. Read on to learn more.

Learn how to do the Mendelsohn Maneuver. © U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Learn how to perform the shaker exercise. © U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Dysphagia is a disorder that can be described as difficulty getting food from the mouth to the stomach safely. With the direction of a licensed speech-language pathologist, these exercises may help strengthen and increase movement in the face muscles. This can make eating food safer and easier.

Learn about soft and bite sized foods. © International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative

Learn about easy to chew foods for adults. © International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative

Learn about regular foods for adults. © International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative

Know some tips when thickening liquids. © U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Understand how mildly-thick liquids are safer for you at this time. © U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Understand how moderately-thick liquids are safer for you at this time. © U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

A dysphagia diet is a special eating plan. Your healthcare provider may advise it if you have trouble swallowing (dysphagia).