{"id":220303,"date":"2025-05-10T07:30:00","date_gmt":"2025-05-10T12:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/e3232af3e5.nxcli.net\/?p=220303"},"modified":"2026-01-02T13:33:59","modified_gmt":"2026-01-02T19:33:59","slug":"how-to-recognize-swallowing-disorders-in-children","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gopt.us\/childrensrehabcenter\/how-to-recognize-swallowing-disorders-in-children\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Recognize Swallowing Disorders in Children"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

We recently met with a parent whose five-year-old had begun losing weight. The parent told us that mealtimes had been a struggle for a while; their child refused hard-textured foods and often choked while eating. While this was understandably alarming, we understand the signs of swallowing disorders in children\u2013and that\u2019s definitely what this was.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Swallowing disorders, also known as dysphagia, affect a child\u2019s ability to eat and drink safely. If left untreated, they can lead to malnutrition and other complications, which is why recognizing these issues early on is so crucial. Swallowing disorders can be subtle, but with the right information, you can spot the signs and make sure your child gets the help they need to thrive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Today, we want to share some common signs and symptoms of swallowing disorders in children. If you notice any of these issues in your child, schedule an appointment with the speech and occupational therapists at Go Physical Therapy Children's Rehab Center. Speech therapy<\/a>, in particular, is an important tool in addressing swallowing disorders, and we are here to help!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Exactly is a Swallowing Disorder?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Swallowing disorders<\/a> occur when there is a problem with any part of the swallowing process. You probably don\u2019t think about the swallowing process all that much, but it\u2019s actually quite complicated and involves three basic steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n