Oral and pharyngeal function and dysfunction
Normal pharyngeal swallow is coordinated in a precise and exact manner. It is controlled from a swallowing center in the brain stem. Normal swallowing is adjusted to bolus volume temperature and viscosity. Abnormal pharyngeal swallow may lead to misdirected swallowing that challenges the airways. Inefficient transportation into the esophagus, stomach, and bowel may lead to dehydration and malnutri