What are Pediatric Feeding Disorders?
Pediatric feeding disorders consist of problems related to feeding and swallowing, specifically addressing concerns around an infant, a toddler, or a child's ability to chew, swallow, and complete a feeding/meal safely and efficiently.
How are Pediatric Feeding Disorders Diagnosed?
Feeding disorders and difficulties can be diagnosed in a variety of ways. Some of the tests we do include:
- Clinical feeding evaluation (similar to a regular meal at home. We will watch your child eat and drink and make observations about their abilities and areas for improvement)
- Modified barium swallow exam (an x-ray to visualize the child swallowing food or liquid to test whether it may be entering the airway)
How are Pediatric Feeding Disorders Treated?
Our speech language pathologists can offer treatment that would include determining appropriate consistencies to offer, advancing the child's chewing skills, and/or expanding the accepted repertoire of foods.
Podcast
Kerry Pearl, CCC-SLP shares symptoms of feeding or swallowing difficulty, pediatric dysphagia, and treatment options available. Listen:
Departments and Programs Who Treat This Condition
department
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