Dysphagia
(Difficulty swallowing)

Dysphagia is a term used to describe difficulty swallowing food, fluids and/or saliva. Head & Neck cancer and its treatment can affect the muscles and nerves of the jaw, lips, tongue and throat, which are all important structures when swallowing. 

Real time MRI scan showing normal functioning swallow of liquid.

Swallowing difficulties associated with cancer treatment may be temporary or long lasting. Swallowing may gradually improve after the completion of radiation therapy as short term side effects resolve. However, swallowing difficulties may continue to occur years after treatment, due to the long term effects of radiation therapy.

Research has shown that some cancers are more likely to result in difficulty swallowing. For these types of cancers, a speech pathologist will provide you with swallowing exercises at the beginning of treatment, even if your swallow still feels normal.

Please note: that unless you are having difficulty chewing and swallowing, you are encouraged to eat and drink your normal food and fluids, in order to keep your swallow muscles exercised.

Common effects of radiation therapy which may impact swallowing include: 

  • Pain, inflammation, swelling and ulceration of the mouth and /or throat.

  • Dry mouth and/or thick saliva. 

  • Stiffness or weakness of the muscles used for chewing and swallowing. 

  • Fatigue.

These effects may cause: 

  • Pain when swallowing. 

  • Difficulty biting and chewing. 

  • Difficulty controlling the movement of food, drink and saliva in the mouth. 

  • Food, drink and/or saliva “going down the wrong way" into your lungs, which can result in lung infections (pneumonia). 

  • Difficulty getting enough nutrition and hydration, leading to weight loss, malnutrition and dehydration. 

  • Decreased interest / enjoyment in eating and drinking.

If you are having difficulty chewing or swallowing a consultation with a Speech Pathologist is strongly advised to:

  • Assess your swallow and determine which foods and fluids are safe to ingest.

  • Develop a co-ordinated care plan with your Radiation Oncologist, Oncology Nurse and Dietitian to improve safety and comfort when eating and drinking. 

  • Provide individual exercises to improve your swallow.

If you experience coughing or choking when eating or drinking, please tell your Speech Pathologist, Nurse, or Radiation Oncologist as Dysphagia can lead to lung infections (pneumonia) in some cases, which can have serious implications.

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Page reviewed 6th Sept 2021