A swallowing assessment checks how safely and easily you swallow. Some forms of myositis weaken the muscles used to swallow, and this test helps keep eating safe and your lungs protected.
The basic assessment is simple and painless. Some people also have a short moving X-ray, or a small camera test, if a closer look is needed.
A swallowing assessment is done by a speech-language pathologist, a specialist in swallowing and communication. Myositis, and inclusion body myositis in particular, can weaken the muscles of the mouth and throat, so that food or drink is harder to swallow or goes down the wrong way. The assessment finds out whether this is happening and how to manage it.
It usually starts with a clinical assessment: the therapist asks about your swallowing, checks the muscles of your mouth and throat, and watches you eat and drink different textures. If a closer look is needed, one of two tests may be added. A videofluoroscopy is a moving X-ray taken while you swallow food and drink mixed with a harmless contrast. A FEES test uses a thin, soft camera passed through the nose to watch your throat as you swallow.
The assessment shows whether the swallowing muscles are affected, how safe your swallowing is, and whether any food or liquid is heading toward your airway instead of your stomach. That matters because food or drink going into the lungs can cause a chest infection. The findings guide safe eating: which textures are easiest and safest, strategies and exercises to swallow more safely, and whether any extra support is needed. They also help your team watch the disease and protect your nutrition.
The clinical assessment has no risk. A videofluoroscopy uses a small dose of X-ray. A FEES test can cause brief discomfort in the nose and, rarely, a little bleeding or gagging. Serious problems are very rare.
The therapist explains the findings of the clinical assessment right away, and the results of any X-ray or camera test are shared with your Centre team. You may be given advice on food textures, swallowing strategies, exercises, and follow-up, and if there is any risk of food reaching the lungs, a clear plan to keep you safe and well-nourished.
This guide is for learning, not medical advice. Your team will explain your own test, and every person’s situation is a little different. Always follow the instructions you are given.