## What are Pediatric Feeding Disorders?

Pediatric feeding disorders consist of problems related to feeding and swallowing, specifically addressing concerns around an infant, a toddler, or a child's ability to chew, swallow, and complete a feeding/meal safely and efficiently.

## How are Pediatric Feeding Disorders Diagnosed?

Feeding disorders and difficulties can be diagnosed in a variety of ways. Some of the tests we do include:

- Clinical feeding evaluation (similar to a regular meal at home. We will watch your child eat and drink and make observations about their abilities and areas for improvement)
- Modified barium swallow exam (an x-ray to visualize the child swallowing food or liquid to test whether it may be entering the airway)

## How are Pediatric Feeding Disorders Treated?

Our speech language pathologists can offer treatment that would include determining appropriate consistencies to offer, advancing the child's chewing skills, and/or expanding the accepted repertoire of foods.

### Podcast

Kerry Pearl, CCC-SLP shares symptoms of feeding or swallowing difficulty, pediatric dysphagia, and treatment options available. Listen:



 

 ## Departments and Programs Who Treat This Condition

  department###  [Ear, Nose, and Throat (Otolaryngology)](/departments/ear-nose-and-throat-otolaryngology) 

 A department providing ear, nose, and throat care, including diagnosis and treatment for hearing loss, sinus problems, allergies, and voice and swallowing disorders using advanced… 

 

 

  department###  [Ear, Nose & Throat (Pediatrics)](/departments/pediatric-specialty-care/ear-nose-throat-pediatrics) 

 A program within Pediatric Specialty Care providing ear, nose, and throat care for children, including diagnosis and treatment for hearing loss, ear infections, sinus conditions, … 

 

 

  department###  [Aerodigestive Program](/departments/aerodigestive-program) 

 A program within the Department of Pediatrics providing care for pediatric aerodigestive disorders, with a multidisciplinary team treating conditions affecting breathing, swallowi… 

 

 

  department###  [Speech Language Pathology](/departments/ear-nose-and-throat-otolaryngology/speech-language-pathology) 

 A program within the Department of Ear, Nose, and Throat (Otolaryngology) providing speech therapy from a speech-language pathologist to evaluate and treat speech, language, voice…