Aspiration

Overview:

Aspiration is the entry of food, liquid, saliva, or other material into the airway below the level of the vocal folds. It can occur before, during, or after the swallow, and may be overt (with coughing) or silent (without obvious signs). If untreated, aspiration can lead to respiratory complications such as aspiration pneumonia. SLPs play a central role in assessing and managing aspiration to ensure safe and effective swallowing.

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Sources:

Park, Jae Sun, et al. "The Relation Between the Presence of Aspiration or Penetration and Clinical Indicators of Dysphagia." Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine 40, no. 6 (2016).

Langmore, Susan E., et al. "Predictors of Aspiration Pneumonia: How Important Is Dysphagia?" Dysphagia 13, no. 2 (1998).