Swallowing Assessment & Dysphagia Management for Adults

Safe and Comfortable Swallowing Begins with the Right Support

Swallowing is something most people never think about—until it becomes difficult. Dysphagia can make eating and drinking uncomfortable, tiring, or even unsafe. Whether swallowing problems appear suddenly after a medical event or gradually over time, they can impact nutrition, hydration, social confidence, and overall wellbeing.

At American Wellness Center in Dubai Healthcare City, our Swallowing Assessment & Dysphagia Management service provides specialised, evidence-based care for adults experiencing swallowing difficulties. We help you understand the cause, restore safer swallowing patterns, and improve daily comfort.

Who This Service Is For

This service is ideal for adults who experience:

• Coughing or choking when eating or drinking
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing certain textures
• Feeling of food “sticking” in the throat or chest
• Unexplained weight loss or dehydration
• Recurrent chest infections or pneumonia
• Swallowing changes after stroke, neurological conditions, or surgery
• Fatigue or discomfort during meals
• Concerns about eating safely or confidently in social settings

If swallowing feels less smooth or safe than before, an assessment can provide clarity and direction.

Common Causes of Dysphagia

Swallowing difficulties can develop for many reasons. We commonly support adults with dysphagia related to:

• Stroke or neurological conditions
• Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis
• Motor neuron disorders
• Head and neck cancer or surgery
• Gastroesophageal reflux or chronic throat irritation
• Age-related muscle changes
• Stress, fatigue, or reduced coordination
• Traumatic brain injury

A detailed evaluation helps identify which part of the swallowing process is affected and guides targeted treatment.

Our Assessment Process

At AWC, swallowing assessments are comprehensive, supportive, and tailored to your medical history and symptoms. Evaluation may include:

• Detailed case history and symptom review
• Oral–motor examination
• Clinical swallowing assessment with various food and liquid textures
• Observation of posture, coordination, and timing
• Recommendations for safe swallowing strategies
• Referral for instrumental testing (such as FEES or VFSS) when medically required

You will receive a clear explanation of findings and a personalized plan to support safer swallowing.

Our Approach to Dysphagia Management

Therapy is designed to make eating and drinking safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable. Treatment plans may include:

• Exercises to strengthen swallowing muscles
• Techniques to reduce aspiration or coughing
• Safe-swallowing methods based on your symptoms
• Breath–swallow coordination training
• Postural adjustments during meals
• Texture or diet modifications when needed
• Strategies for improving mealtime comfort and confidence
• Education for families or caregivers

Our approach is gentle, respectful, and focused on maintaining dignity, independence, and quality of life.

What You Can Expect to Gain

With therapy and practical adjustments, adults often experience:

• Safer, more efficient swallowing
• Reduced coughing, choking, or throat discomfort
• Improved confidence during meals
• Better hydration and nutrition
• Greater enjoyment of social eating
• Strengthened muscles involved in swallowing
• Lower risk of respiratory complications

Every goal is tailored to your lifestyle, dietary preferences, and overall health.

Why Adults in Dubai Choose AWC

At American Wellness Center, dysphagia care is delivered by experienced speech and language therapists trained in swallowing disorders. We understand the medical, emotional, and social impact of dysphagia and provide sensitive, culturally aware support for Dubai’s diverse community.

Located in Dubai Healthcare City, AWC offers integrated care, coordinating with neurologists, ENTs, psychologists, psychiatrists, and nutrition specialists when needed. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that every aspect of your swallowing and overall health is considered.

Your First Step Toward Safer Swallowing

Your initial appointment focuses on understanding your symptoms, reviewing your medical history, and conducting a gentle, thorough swallowing evaluation. From there, your therapist creates a personalised plan to support safe and comfortable eating.

Sessions are available in person at our Dubai Healthcare City clinic.

To learn more about our services, visit the Speech and Language Therapy for Adults page or contact us to schedule your assessment.