Dysphagia and Aspiration Following Stroke

Dysphagia is prominent across the continuum of stroke recovery and its presence is likely to result in pulmonary complications, particularly pneumonia, dehydration and poor nutrition. It is estimated that between 29 and 50 percent of acute stroke survivors are dysphasic. In this chapter, we describe techniques that are commonly used in the detection and assessment of dysphagia and aspiration. We also review the interventions used in the management of dysphagia including texture-modified diets, general dysphagia therapy programs, non-oral (enteral) feeding, medications, and physical and olfactory stimulation.