What it means
Swallowing takes many muscles and nerves working together, and the epiglottis covers the airway so food does not go into the lungs. Difficulty swallowing is dysphagiadis-FAY-jee-uhDifficulty swallowing.dys- difficultphag/o eat, swallow-ia conditionFull entry ; it is common after a stroke and in many nerve and muscle diseases.
For the nurse
Before giving food, fluids or pills to a client at risk, check that they can swallow safely per the facility's screen. Sit the client upright, and watch for coughing, choking or a wet voice during meals.
At a glance
| Spanish | tragar, deglutir |
|---|---|
| Also written | swallows, swallowed |
Related terms
aspiration
Breathing food, liquid, saliva or stomach contents into the airway and lungs; also, drawing fluid out with suction or a needle.
esophagus
The muscular tube that carries food and liquid from the throat to the stomach.
dysphagia
Difficulty swallowing.