Evaluation of dysphagia among patients with chronic cough

Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of dysphagia in patients with chronic cough. Material and methods: Thirty-four consecutive patients. All patients underwent physical examination, ENT assessment, functional phoniatric assessment at rest and speech, Water-Swallow Test (WST), and Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing Disorders (FEES). Furthermore, Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) and Eating Assessment Tool 10 (EAT 10) questionnaires were performed. Results: Results of the RSI and EAT 10 questionnaires showed the risk of reflux and dysphagia in participating patients. WST positive results increase with water volume. Patients presented episodes of spillage, double swallows, penetration, aspiration and residue of food at the hypopharynx. Functional examination showed decrease of laryngeal elevation (33%) and hypertension of external laryngeal muscles. Conclusions: Results of the study showed prevalence of dysphagia in most patients with chronic chough. It seems that phoniatric assessment in those cases should be expanded and FEES examination should comprise an important part.