Don’t Ignore That Swallow Problem: Why You Might Need a Swallow Study

Have you ever found yourself coughing or choking during meals? Or avoiding certain foods because they feel difficult to swallow? These signs may be more than just part of “getting older”—they could indicate a swallowing problem known as dysphagia.

Swallowing difficulties can affect your nutrition, safety, and quality of life. The good news is that a specialized procedure called Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) can help identify the cause and guide your treatment plan.

Understanding Dysphagia in Adults and Older Adults

Swallowing is something we often take for granted—until it becomes difficult. As we age, changes in muscle strength, coordination, or medical conditions like stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or dementia can make swallowing harder.

Signs of a swallowing disorder may include:

• Coughing, choking, or throat clearing when eating or drinking

• A feeling of food being stuck in the throat

• Unexplained weight loss or dehydration

• Frequent pneumonia or respiratory infections

• Gurgly or wet-sounding voice after meals

• Avoiding certain foods or liquids

These symptoms are not just frustrating—they can also be dangerous if food or liquid enters the lungs, a condition called aspiration, which may lead to pneumonia. Pneumonia can lead to expensive hospitalizations.

What Is FEES and Why Is It Important?

FEES (Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing) is a safe and effective procedure used to examine how well a person swallows. During a FEES exam, a trained speech-language pathologist uses a small, flexible camera passed gently through the nose to watch how food and liquid move through the throat in real time.

✅ Benefits of FEES (Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing):

🍀 No radiation exposure – Unlike a modified barium swallow

👀 Clear view of throat & vocal cords during swallowing

🧑‍🦽 Great for individuals with limited mobility or complex medical needs

🪑 Done while seated comfortably – no need to lie down

🥣 Identifies safest foods & liquids for swallowing

⚖️ No weight limit – accessible for all body types

🍕 Eat real foods – no chalky barium required!

⏳ Flexible timing – the test can last as long as needed

Research shows that FEES is a reliable and evidence-based method to assess swallowing, particularly in older adults (Langmore, 2001; Miles et al., 2019). FEES is a comparable alternative to a Modified Barium Swallow Study and can also be used as a follow-up swallow assessment when needed.

Why Might an Older Adult Need a Swallowing Evaluation?

Swallowing difficulties are common in older adults, especially after illness or hospitalization. A swallowing evaluation may be recommended if:

• You’ve had a stroke or progressive neurological condition

• You experience frequent coughing or recurrent pneumonia

• You’ve lost weight without trying

• You feel anxious or uncomfortable when eating

• Food is getting stuck

• Your doctor or family notices a change in your eating habits

Early evaluation is key. FEES can help prevent complications, reduce the risk of aspiration, and support safer, more enjoyable meals.

Taking the First Step Toward Better Swallowing

At our clinic, FEES evaluations are performed by licensed speech-language pathologists who specialize in adult and geriatric care. After the evaluation, we’ll provide personalized recommendations to improve your swallowing safety and comfort.

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of dysphagia, don’t wait. Getting evaluated can bring answers—and peace of mind.

📞 Call us today to schedule your FEES appointment and take control of your health and quality of life. 608-728-7774

In Summary

• Swallowing problems can impact your safety and well-being—especially in older adulthood.

• FEES is a proven, gentle, and effective tool to assess swallowing difficulties.

• Early diagnosis helps prevent serious complications like aspiration pneumonia.

• A simple evaluation can make mealtimes safer and more enjoyable again.

References

Langmore, S. E. (2001). Endoscopic evaluation and treatment of swallowing disorders. Thieme.

Miles, A., Moore, S., McFarlane, M., Lee, F., Allen, J., & Huckabee, M.-L. (2019). Comparison of endoscopic and fluoroscopic evaluations of swallowing: A critical review. Dysphagia, 34(3), 395–404. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00455-018-09975-3

Donzelli, J., Brady, S., Wesling, M., & Craney, M. (2003). Simultaneous fluoroscopic and endoscopic evaluations of swallowing: Effect of bolus volume. The Annals of Otology, Rhinology, and Laryngology, 112(5), 394–400. https://doi.org/10.1177/000348940311200504

Suiter, D. M., & Leder, S. B. (2008). Clinical utility of the 3-ounce water swallow test. Dysphagia, 23(3), 244–250. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00455-007-9127-y