What symptoms do people experience when having trouble swallowing with Parkinson's?
Swallowing difficulties can show up in different ways. You might notice taking longer to finish meals or drinks, drooling, or struggling to keep food and liquids in your mouth. Some people experience sputtering, choking, or a sore throat Show Full Answer
What symptoms do people experience when having trouble swallowing with Parkinson's?
Swallowing difficulties can show up in different ways. You might notice taking longer to finish meals or drinks, drooling, or struggling to keep food and liquids in your mouth. Some people experience sputtering, choking, or a sore throat during or after eating.
As one MyParkinsonsTeam member shared, "I choke all the time and lose my voice too." Another member mentioned, "I recently started choking on my own spit, and for the first time ever, I got really scared because I couldn't get any air."
You might also experience unintended weight loss if eating becomes difficult enough that you start avoiding certain foods or drinking fewer liquids. Some people don't even realize there's a problem until the weight loss becomes noticeable. What treatments are available for swallowing difficulties?
Several treatment approaches can help manage swallowing problems:
Working with a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) is the primary treatment option. They can perform swallowing tests to identify where the problem is occurring and recommend targeted exercises. Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT) is particularly helpful for strengthening swallowing muscles. One member shared: "I finally found a great speech therapist in my area who is well-trained in LSVT. I've worked with her for two years. She has me 80 percent to 90 percent better."
Medication adjustments can also help. Treating Parkinson's with medications like levodopa may improve swallowing function by easing stiff muscles and slow movements.
Eating and drinking modifications can make swallowing easier:
* Take small sips and bites
* Change food textures or thickness of liquids
* Eat when your medication is most effective
* Sit up straight during meals
* Reduce distractions while eating
* Swallow saliva regularly to manage drooling
Your doctor may also order a barium swallow test or endoscopy to evaluate how your swallowing muscles function.
November 12, 2025
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