How can dyspahgia and aspiration increase mortality in stroke patients?
Dysphagia and aspiration are major risk factors for the development of pneumonia. Dysphagia is defined by swallowing impairment of the upper digestive tract and includes impairments in swallowing efficiency and safety, with delays in the timing of movements, reduced range of movements, and frank aspiration. Aspiration in this population is a sign of severe dysphagia and can lead to increased mortality in stroke patients up to 4 years after the initial event.