Swallowing difficulties (Dysphagia)
Coughing, Choking
Radiotherapy to the head or neck area can cause pain and swelling in the mouth or throat. This can make it painful to chew or swallow. An infection in your mouth or throat can also make chewing and swallowing uncomfortable. Difficulty swallowing is known as ‘dysphagia’.
Signs that swallowing is difficult include: taking longer to chew and swallow; coughing or choking while eating or drinking; or food sticking in your mouth like a ball.
These changes may be temporary or lasting and can have a big impact on your daily life.
*** If you are having difficulty swallowing, especially if you are coughing or choking when eating and drinking, please let your speech pathologist, nurse, or doctor know.
We've collected our favourite resources for you to read, watch, listen to, download and share to better understand and manage this concern, as well as clinical services if you would prefer to speak to someone about the emotional challenges of cancer treatment.
Speech Pathologists
Can provide support and help to manage side effects of treatment impacting on eating and drinking. If you would like to link with one of our speech pathologists, please ask your treating health professional to send a referral.
Dietitian and nutrition support services
Dietitians can provide support and practical strategies to develop a meal plan that meets your individual needs. If you would like to be linked with one of our dietitians, please ask your treating health professional to send a referral.
