So You're Having Trouble Swallowing

by Theresa Richard

So you’re having trouble swallowing. You feel anxiety during mealtime or avoid eating in public. Maybe you’ve been told that you need a feeding tube, will never eat or drink again, or can only consume thick liquids and chopped up foods. Guess what? You’re not alone. Far from it. It’s estimated that over ten million Americans are evaluated for swallowing disorders (dysphagia) each year. But if this is so common, why does it feel so lonely, scary, and frustrating?

So You’re Having Trouble Swallowing dives into the facts and frustrations of dysphagia and dysphagia therapy. Theresa Richard, author and dysphagia expert, is a speech-language pathologist who is board certified in swallowing and swallowing disorders. She is also a life-long advocate for her son who lives with a swallowing disorder. After years of clinical practice and fighting for her family, she realized a common thread in the world of swallowing a large gap exists between research and clinical practice. This gap is harming patients. Using her frustrations and expertise to fuel the flame, Theresa decided to change the way people receive care for their dysphagia by writing this book for you- the patient or caregiver.

This book will teach you the essential information about swallowing, testing, treatment options, and how to advocate for the best care available. Dysphagia is far more than “just a disorder.” It’s a life-altering diagnosis that impacts social gatherings, holidays, family meals, and freedom. It can lead to hospitalizations, high medical costs, and depression. It steals a part of your identity and robs you of one of life’s greatest joys.

But it doesn’t have to.

Use this book to guide your questions. Find the right information to charge your advocacy. Most importantly, learn through Theresa’s expertise and personal journey to get several steps closer to enjoying meals with your family once again.

147 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 12, 2021

Reviews

[Alex Cleveland · Rating 4 out of 5]

For an SLP, this book is very basic. However, it is not written for SLPs, instead the laymen and for that, it serves its purpose perfectly. A quick and easy read, with good information to help empower patients and give them the tools to advocate for themselves, as well as ask the right questions about their treatment and/or lack of treatment. Absolutely would be helpful if you’ve had questions or concerns about your swallow!

[Hannah Benwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really excellent overview of dysphagia and its assessment and treatment options

Very accessible, an excellent resource for patients and health care professionals. Well rounded. Enough information without being dumbed down. Reminds me being an advocate for my patients is an important part of my job and not to be belittled.

[Douglas Larson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Th is book contains a lot of detail with medical meanings. I found it confusing and difficult to keep of all the terms related to dysphagia. But I also appreciate the author's thoroughness with this subject.
She clearly has passion for this topic as well as a deep respect for people with dysphagia.

[Alyssa Franceschelli Wilkinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book! Lots of topics i touch on when counseling/ educating my patients. It also was a great reminder just how foreign the concept of swallowing/ Dysphagia is! I plan to have all my students read this at the start of there medical externship from now on.

[Madison Hinmon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Awesome book! As an SLP this was great to read so I can recommend to my patients and family members, and use some of these well written and thought out descriptions of what SLPs do regarding swallowing to advocate for the profession within my place of work!

[Cara♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m a medical SLP. I appreciate what this book is trying to do, just think it could have been organized more effectively.

[Anne Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book needs to be in every patient’s and clinician’s tool box. Richard explained everything so well and it was fantastic!

[Mona · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m always on the lookout for reading material to advance my skills as a SLP. I would say that this book is great for a client/client’s family member who wants to learn more about dysphagia vs for a clinician.