Dysphagia Tests
Reviewed
Dysphagia tests are used to find out why you have trouble swallowing. They range from screening tools (e.g., bedside swallow, questionnaire) to imaging and procedures (e.g., FEES, VFSS, upper endoscopy). Screening tests only indicate risk, while confirmatory tests identify the specific type and location of the swallowing problem.
Preparation and collection
You may need to fast (not eat or drink) for several hours before the test. Avoid smoking, chewing gum, or sucking on hard candy. Tell your provider about all medicines you take; do not stop any unless instructed. If you are having an upper endoscopy, arrange for someone to take you home due to sedation.
Understanding this test
Use the reference interval and units printed by the laboratory that performed the test. A result outside that interval is not a diagnosis by itself, and a result inside it does not rule out every condition. Your symptoms, history, medicines, timing, and related tests can change what the result means.
- Screening tests (e.g., bedside swallow, questionnaire) only indicate risk, not a confirmed diagnosis.
- Imaging and procedures carry small risks: fluid entry into lungs (bedside swallow), discomfort and rare complications such as tear or bleeding (FEES, upper endoscopy), low radiation exposure (VFSS), and possible allergic reaction or constipation from barium.
- Results must be interpreted by your healthcare provider along with your symptoms and medical history.
What to do next
For screening tests: if results show higher likelihood, your provider will likely order follow-up confirmatory testing (e.g., FEES, VFSS, upper endoscopy). For confirmatory tests: results will help identify the type and cause of dysphagia, and your provider may refer you to a specialist (speech-language pathologist, otolaryngologist, gastroenterologist, or neurologist) for further management.