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What Causes Difficulty Swallowing Saliva In A Toddler?
Question: My autistic toddler son is having difficulty swallowing his saliva. He eats okay but very choosy. Drinks water etc but doesn't swallow saliva. Always gathering it in his mouth.
Brief Answer:
don't worry it will improve.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for writing to health care magic.
Generally few autistic kids do have problems with swallowing.
If he is otherwise eating fine, don't worry, his oropharyngeal coordination is good.
It will improve with time. Just make him drink more liquids in small aliquots.
Try occupational therapy along with speech therapy.
If the problem doesn't improve he may need a barium swallow to assess if there is any physical or mechanical issue in swallowing.
Hope this answers your query. If any further questions, will be happy to help you.
Wishing him good health
Dr Arun
don't worry it will improve.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for writing to health care magic.
Generally few autistic kids do have problems with swallowing.
If he is otherwise eating fine, don't worry, his oropharyngeal coordination is good.
It will improve with time. Just make him drink more liquids in small aliquots.
Try occupational therapy along with speech therapy.
If the problem doesn't improve he may need a barium swallow to assess if there is any physical or mechanical issue in swallowing.
Hope this answers your query. If any further questions, will be happy to help you.
Wishing him good health
Dr Arun
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Ashwin Bhandari
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