A Closer Look at Safe Swallowing
Swallowing is something most people never think about until it becomes difficult. Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing, or FEES, is a simple and effective test that helps specialists see exactly what happens when a patient eats or drinks. At Advanced Neurologic Rehabilitation, our neurological rehabilitation clinic in Chandler, AZ, Gilbert, AZ and Scottsdale, AZ, FEES provides clear answers for patients with swallowing problems, guiding treatment that restores safety and confidence at mealtimes.
Why Safe Swallowing Deserves Careful Attention
Swallowing disorders, also called dysphagia, can occur after stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or other neurological conditions. Difficulty swallowing may lead to coughing, choking, or food entering the airway, which increases the risk of pneumonia. Without proper evaluation, patients may avoid eating and drinking, which can lead to weight loss, malnutrition, or dehydration. FEES helps identify these risks quickly and accurately.
How the FEES Test Works
FEES is a safe, minimally invasive procedure performed by a trained speech-language pathologist. A small flexible camera is gently passed through the nose to the throat.
As the patient eats and drinks small amounts of food and liquid, the camera provides a live video of the swallowing process. This allows the therapist to see how food moves, where problems occur, and whether material enters the airway.
Who Benefits From a Closer Look
Patients with the following conditions often benefit from a FEES assessment:
- Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA)
- Parkinson’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- ALS and other progressive neurological disorders
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Functional neurological disorder (FND)
- Cancer-related swallowing problems
- Aging-related swallowing changes
Answers That Lead to Real Solutions
FEES provides valuable information that other exams cannot, including:
- Real-time view of swallowing function
- Identification of aspiration risk (food or liquid entering the airway)
- Ability to test different food textures and liquid thicknesses
- Immediate feedback that guides treatment decisions
- Safe procedure that does not expose patients to radiation
With this detailed evaluation, therapists can design a personalized treatment plan that makes eating and drinking safer.
Why Patients Choose Advanced Neurologic Rehabilitation for FEES
At Advanced Neurologic Rehabilitation, we understand that swallowing difficulties affect both health and quality of life. Our team in Chandler, AZ, Gilbert, AZ and Scottsdale, AZ uses FEES as part of a comprehensive approach to swallowing care, combining advanced diagnostics with compassionate therapy. Guided by our values of service above self, excellence with every visit, and restoring hope, we help patients return to safe and enjoyable mealtimes with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the FEES test uncomfortable?
How long does the FEES procedure take?
What happens after the FEES test?
Take the First Step Toward Safer Eating
If swallowing has become difficult, answers are available. Contact Advanced Neurologic Rehabilitation, your neurological rehabilitation clinic in Chandler, AZ, Gilbert, AZ or Scottsdale, AZ, to schedule a FEES evaluation and begin a treatment plan designed to restore comfort and safety with every meal.
Your Next Steps…
- Request An Appointment
- Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
- Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
- Recover & Enjoy a Functionally Independent Life!
