Adult Dysphagia

Question 1

What is dysphagia?

Answer 1

A swallowing disorder that may occur as a result of various medical conditions. Problems that involve the oral cavity, pharynx, esophagus, or gastroesophageal junction

It is more common in older adults

Question 2

What do approximately one third of patients with dysphagia develop?

Answer 2

Pneumonia

Question 3

What are functions of cranial nerve V?

Answer 3

Cranial nerve V is the trigeminal nerve (motor and sensory)
Sensory from face to mouth
Motor from to muscles of mastication (chewing)

Question 4

What are functions of cranial nerve VII?

Answer 4

Cranial nerve VII is the facial nerve (motor and sensory)

Serves the muscles of facial expression, lacrimal glands, and salivary glands

Question 5

What are functions of cranial nerve IX?

Answer 5

Cranial nerve IX is the glossopharyngeal nerve (motor and sensory)
Serves the pharynx (throat) for swallowing, posterior third of tongue, and parotid salivary gland

Question 6

What are functions of cranial nerve XI?

Answer 6

Cranial nerve XI is the accessory nerve (motor and sensory)

Serves muscles that move head, neck, and shoulders

Question 7

What are functions of cranial nerve XII?

Answer 7

Cranial nerve XII is the hypoglossal nerve (motor and sensory)
Serves muscles of the tongue

Question 8

How are the orofacial structures similar for speech and swallowing?

Answer 8

The same muscles are utilized for speech and swallowing

Question 9

What is the most important structure in the oral phase?

Answer 9

The tongue!

Functions of the tongue:

• Hold and manipulate the bolus
• Transport the bolus
• Initiate the pharyngeal swallow

There are intrinsic and extrinsic tongue muscles