Dysphagia in Children

Dysphagia, the medical term for swallowing difficulties, is a condition that can significantly impact quality of life for children and their families. While often associated with older adults, dysphagia also affects a considerable number of children, necessitating early recognition and intervention to prevent complications such as malnutrition, dehydration, and aspiration pneumonia.

Recognizing the Signs of Dysphagia in Children

Early recognition of dysphagia can prevent serious health issues. Parents and caregivers should be aware of the following signs and symptoms in their children:

1. Difficulty with Breastfeeding or Bottle Feeding

   1. prolonged feeding times

   2. choking, coughing or gagging during feeding

   3. frequent crying or arching of the back during feeding

2. Refusal to Eat Certain Foods or Textures

   1. avoidance of solid foods, preferring only liquids or purees

   2. fussiness around mealtimes

   3. persistent pocketing of food in the cheeks or spitting out food

3. Poor Weight Gain or Growth

   1. failure to thrive or gain weight as expected

   2. noticeable weight loss or lack of weight gain

4. Respiratory Issues During or After Feeding

   1. recurrent respiratory infections or pneumonia

   2. wheezing, coughing, or noisy breathing

5. Signs of Fatigue or Stress During Meals

   1. becoming tired quickly while eating

   2. excessive sweating or changes in skin color during meals

6. Behavioral Signs

   1. irritability or restlessness during feeding

   2. difficulty coordinating breathing and swallowing

Recognizing these signs early can lead to prompt assessment and intervention, reducing the risk of complications and improving the child’s overall development.