A number of clinical findings can help to identify a patient treated for a head and neck cancer who may benefit from a comprehensive examination for dysphagia.
Oral findings:
(1) inability to control saliva, liquids or food in the oral cavity
(2) pocketing of food in the cheek
(3) excessive chewing
(4) drooling
Respiratory tract findings:
(1) coughing, choking or threat clearing before/during/after swallowing
(2) wet or gurgle voice, abnormal vocal quality after swallowing
(3) congestion after a meal
(4) aspiration pneumonia
(5) nasal regurgitation
Swallowing issues:
(1) difficulty swallowing
(2) complaint of food sticking in the throat
(3) change in diet to softer or more liquid foods
General findings:
(1) weight loss
(2) signs of malnutrition
(3) dehydration
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