The Swallowing Mechanism: Normal and Disordered

Abstract

By Courtney Kendall, Communications Sciences and Disorders; Kaitlyn Brzeczkowski, Communications Sciences and Disorders

Advisor: Lisa Kelchner

Presentation ID: AM_B10

Abstract: Normal swallowing is a complex process that consists of three stages: the oral stage, the pharyngeal stage, and the esophageal stage. Each plays an important role in the process of normal swallowing. According to Bhattacharyya (2014), one in 25 adults experience a swallowing problem in the United States every year. As a result, it is important to not only understand the normal swallowing process, but also the etiologies of diseases that can hinder the process. Independent research of peer reviewed articles was conducted to develop an understanding of the the normal swallowing mechanism, to increase understanding of the etiologies of dysphagia and its neurological components- in particular those related to Parkinson's Disease and dementia- and to identify appropriate assessments for potential swallowing disorders. Bi-weekly meetings to discuss our findings and in-person observations helped to reinforce our knowledge and understanding of these topics.