Children with dysphagia sometimes reject certain foods or eat smaller amounts than usual. If your child displays any of the following symptoms during feedings over time, get to your doctor right away.
Your pediatrician will ask you about any swallowing or feeding problems and give your child a physical exam. He may recommend a speech-language pathologist (SLP) who may
- Ask you questions about your child's medical history, symptoms and any developmental issues
- Look at the muscles involved in swallowing to determine their strength and movement
- Observe your child's behavior during feeding, including her posture and mouth movements
- If necessary, perform special tests, such as X-rays or endoscopic assessments, to observe the swallowing process from the inside
Depending on the extent of the dysphagia, the SLP may put together a feeding team. Members might include physicians, nutritionists, physical therapists or developmental specialists.