Dysphagia

 

Dysphagia occurs after stroke due to the parts of the brain that control swallowing being affected.

 

Up to 78% have dysphagia immediately post-stroke (Martino et al., 2005); of these 76% will continue to have moderate to severe dysphagia and 15% have profound difficulties (Mann et al., 1999).

 

A patient with dysphagia (swallowing problems) after stroke will have difficulty in eating and drinking safely.