What to Expect from an Adult Dysphagia Assessment

Being told you - or someone you care for - has swallowing difficulties can feel alarming. Dysphagia (the medical term for difficulty swallowing) affects people for many different reasons, and a specialist assessment is the first step toward understanding what's happening and how to manage it safely.

Here's what the process looks like at your Hampshire Feeding Clinic appointment.

Before the appointment

Before we meet, I'll ask you to complete a short questionnaire about your medical history, when the swallowing difficulties started, what foods or drinks are causing problems, and any symptoms you've noticed - such as coughing after eating, a sensation of food getting stuck, or changes in your voice after meals.

If you have relevant letters from your GP, neurologist, or hospital, it's helpful to have these available to share beforehand, but they're not essential.

The clinical interview

The assessment begins with a conversation. I want to understand your experience in your own words - what a typical meal looks like, what worries you most, and what your goals are. For adults with neurological conditions such as Parkinson's, MS, or following a stroke, understanding the bigger picture of your daily life matters enormously.

The oral motor examination

I'll look at the strength, coordination, and movement of the muscles involved in eating and swallowing - including your lips, tongue, jaw, and the muscles of your throat. This is completely non-invasive and involves following simple instructions like sticking out your tongue or moving your jaw from side to side.

Observation of eating and drinking

You'll be asked to eat and drink a range of textures - typically starting with thin liquids, then moving to thicker consistencies and soft or solid foods. I observe how you manage each texture, watching for signs of difficulty at any stage of the swallow.

After the assessment

At the end of the session I'll share my clinical findings with you and, where relevant, recommend a management plan. This might include:

• Advice on safe food and drink textures
• Exercises to strengthen the swallowing muscles
• Strategies for safer mealtimes
• Onward referral if further investigation (such as a videofluoroscopy) is needed
• A written report for your GP or other healthcare professionals

How long does it take?

A full dysphagia assessment typically takes 60-90 minutes. Follow-up therapy sessions are usually shorter.

Do I need a referral?

No. You can self-refer for a private assessment at Hampshire Feeding Clinic. If you're not sure whether an assessment is right for you, book a free initial call and we can talk it through first. You can also read more about the signs and causes of dysphagia if you're unsure whether your symptoms warrant an assessment.