Symptoms of Aspiration

• Coughing or choking while eating or drinking
• Wet or gurgly voice after swallowing
• Recurrent chest infections or pneumonia
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Unexplained weight loss or poor nutrition
• Shortness of breath or wheezing after meals

Common Causes of Aspiration

• Neurological disorders (stroke, Parkinson’s disease, dementia)
• Weak or uncoordinated swallowing muscles
• Structural throat abnormalities or tumours
• Post-surgical changes or nerve injury
• Severe acid reflux causing laryngeal irritation

Diagnostic Tests for Aspiration

1. Clinical Swallow Evaluation

A bedside assessment by an ENT specialist or speech therapist to check swallowing safety, coughing reflex, and coordination.

2. Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES)

A thin endoscope is passed through the nose to observe swallowing in real time. It helps detect aspiration, residue, and airway protection ability.

3. Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS)

A dynamic X-ray test where the patient swallows contrast material. It shows the flow of food/liquid and identifies aspiration or penetration.

4. Chest X-ray or CT Scan

Helps diagnose aspiration pneumonia or lung complications.

5. Oesophageal Manometry / Endoscopy

Used if reflux or oesophageal dysfunction is suspected.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of aspiration. The goal is to prevent aspiration, improve swallowing, and protect the lungs.

1. Swallowing Therapy

• Exercises to strengthen swallowing muscles
• Safe swallowing techniques taught by a speech therapist

2. Diet Modification

• Thickened liquids to reduce choking
• Soft or pureed food for easier swallowing
• Avoiding dry, crumbly foods

3. Medical Treatment

• Treating acid reflux with medications
• Managing infections like aspiration pneumonia

4. Surgical Treatments (If Required)

Recommended when structural or neurological issues cause severe aspiration.

• Vocal cord medialisation for weak vocal fold closure
• Cricopharyngeal myotomy for upper oesophageal sphincter dysfunction
• Feeding tube placement in high-risk cases

Prevention & Self-care Measures

• Sit upright during meals and remain upright for 20–30 minutes after eating
• Chew food slowly and thoroughly
• Avoid talking while eating
• Use customized swallowing strategies taught in therapy
• Manage underlying neurological or throat conditions

Why Choose Dr. Shrekha Padmakshan?

Dr. Shrekha Padmakshan offers detailed assessment and personalised treatment plans for aspiration, ensuring safety, accurate diagnosis, and long-term swallowing improvement.

• Expert use of FEES & VFSS for precise diagnosis
• Collaborative approach with speech therapists & pulmonologists
• Advanced care for neurological and structural swallowing disorders

If you experience frequent choking, coughing during meals, or recurrent chest infections, schedule an aspiration evaluation to ensure safe swallowing and prevent serious complications.