Dysphagia describes which condition?

• A. Loss of Gag reflex (inability to swallow)
• B. Inability to Speak
• C. Difficulty swallowing
• D. Nasal obstruction

Answer: (C)

Dysphagia means difficulty swallowing, a symptom that may come from problems with the muscles or nerves involved in swallowing or from a structural issue in the throat or esophagus. It’s not the same as being unable to speak, nor as a nasal blockage, and it isn’t simply a loss of the gag reflex. In practice, look for signs during meals such as coughing or choking, a wet or gurgly voice after swallowing, drooling, or taking longer to swallow. To keep the person safe, maintain an upright position during and after eating, offer small bites and slower pacing, and follow any texture or liquid-thickness instructions prescribed. Observe for pocketing or repeated drooling, and report concerns to the nurse or speech-language pathologist for a full evaluation. If swallowing safety can’t be ensured, do not force feeding and use the recommended alternatives.