Help for Patients with Swallowing Problems and Voice Issues
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), esophageal cancer, and neck and esophageal surgeries can cause difficulty swallowing. Sometimes reflux also changes a person’s voice. To diagnose swallowing problems and help patients better manage these symptoms, the AdventHealth Digestive Health Institute has a Voice and Swallowing Center.
While the ability to swallow may seem effortless, it is a very complex process. Roughly 50 pairs of muscles and many nerves work to move food from the mouth to the stomach. Swallowing disorders, also called dysphagia, can affect your ability to eat, drink or take medicine. Dysphagia can also put you at risk for serious health consequences.
Symptoms of a swallowing disorder can include:
- A feeling that food is getting stuck in the throat
- Pain or discomfort while eating or drinking
- Coughing during eating or immediately afterward
- Having a wet or gurgly voice
Work Closely with an Expert Speech-Language Pathologist
The Voice and Swallowing Center is led by a speech-language pathologist, a trained professional who helps patients regain function of their mouths and throats. In evaluating patients, Cory O'Brien, AdventHealth Digestive Health Institute's speech-language pathologist observes how their muscles work when they swallow. She often performs special tests to see inside their throats and works closely with gastroenterologists to create care plans if dysphagia is caused by underlying issues with the digestive tract. Cory also helps patients relearn how to swallow and speak as well as possible.
Treatments provided at the Voice and Swallowing Center include:
- Teaching patients how to perform specialized exercises that improve muscle movement
- Helping patients discover eating and drinking positions and strategies that make swallowing easier
- Finding out with patients which specific food and liquid textures are easier for them to swallow
Many times, working with a speech-language pathologist can fully restore patients’ abilities to eat and drink so they can enjoy food as much as they did before their injuries or conditions.
Conditions and Treatments
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Esophageal Cancer
Typically esophageal cancer requires surgery in addition to radiation and chemotherapy. Learn more about the surgical treatments our specialists can provide.
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Achalasia
The experienced surgeons at AdventHealth Digestive Health Institute offer effective and permanent treatment for achalasia. Learn more about these treatment options.
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Barrett's Esophagus
The gastroenterologists and surgeons at AdventHealth Digestive Health Institute provide leading-edge treatment for Barrett’s esophagus. Learn more today.
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Swallowing Disorders
Our board-certified speech pathologist can assist patients with swallowing disorders and voice issues.
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Esophageal Surgery
At AdventHealth Digestive Health Institute, we offer minimally invasive, robotic esophageal surgery as a cancer treatment option.
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Upper Endoscopy / Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)
An upper endoscopy helps doctors look at the esophagus, stomach and first part of the small intestine and can help diagnose a range of conditions.
Meet Your Dedicated Experts
Our specialists are passionate about providing collaborative care that addresses your unique needs and goals while ensuring you feel informed and supported every step of the way. Learn more about our team and their areas of expertise.
Let Us Help You Feel Whole Again
Whether you’re experiencing new symptoms or want a second opinion on a diagnosis, our dedicated digestive health experts are here to help you find answers and a path forward. Request an appointment today to take charge of your health and get the personal support you need.