1. Clinical evaluation
The therapist makes a diagnosis by observing the patient's oral function and eating habits. The therapist will invite the patient to eat food or drinks of different consistencies to observe whether the patient has symptoms of dysphagia.
2. X-ray swallowing examination
The therapist observes the patient's swallowing process from the mouth to the esophagus under X-rays. The therapist will invite the patient to eat food and drinks containing barium during the examination, then determine the cause of the patient's dysphagia and his swallowing ability, and provide corresponding eating suggestions. The therapist may also try different eating compensation strategies during the examination, such as changing eating postures.
3. Endoscopic swallowing examination
The therapist will work with a specialist to perform this swallowing exam. The endoscope will enter the patient's throat through the nostrils. The therapist will observe the structure and function of the patient's swallowing muscles through real-time images. The therapist will also invite the patient to eat different pigmented foods to determine the cause of the patient's dysphagia and his/her swallowing ability. ability.