Feeding Disorders

Understanding Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Meal times are some of those pleasurable times to bond with family members, yet a source of challenges for some children. The feeding and eating issue can involve difficulties in swallowing, right up to the challenge with different food textures. At Esperanza Speech and Occupational Therapy Centre in Dubai, we provide specialist support for such feeding challenges in children.

Our clinical approach is grounded in the latest research on pediatric feeding disorders. Through our expert team of speech therapists and occupational therapists, we address various aspects of feeding difficulties, including:

• Challenges with moving food safely from mouth to stomach
• Difficulties managing different food textures
• Issues with proper sucking and swallowing patterns
• Limited food acceptance and variety
• Physical coordination during eating and drinking

Feeding disorders typically require early intervention. Our speech therapists in Dubai combine speech therapy techniques with occupational therapy approaches to plan treatments that address feeding skill issues. The feeding program will help not just focus on mechanical intake but also ensure success and more pleasure around mealtimes with a child for families.

Each child’s feeding journey is unique, which is why we develop individualized therapy programs.Our speech therapy sessions will work on oral-motor skills and safe swallowing patterns, while our occupational therapy interventions will help your child develop the physical skills needed to learn independent feeding. This integrated approach ensures children receive all supports necessary for developing healthy eating in a safe, non-threatening environment.

Causes of Feeding or Swallowing Disorders in Children

Understanding the Root Causes Feeding and swallowing difficulties in children can arise from various underlying conditions. At Esperanza, we evaluate the specific cause of your child’s feeding disorder and provide a tailored treatment approach.

1. Neurological Disorders: Conditions like cerebral palsy or meningitis that affect tongue and muscle function.
2. Reflux Issues: Gastroesophageal reflux that may interfere with swallowing.
3. Premature Birth: Children born prematurely may experience delays in feeding and swallowing skills.
4. Congenital Heart Disease: Heart-related conditions affecting the child’s overall strength and feeding.
5. Cleft Lip or Palate: Structural issues that affect feeding and swallowing.
6. Autism Spectrum Disorder: Many children with autism may have sensory issues or rigid feeding behaviors.
7. Respiratory Problems: Conditions like asthma that can make feeding and swallowing difficult.
8. Congenital Conditions: Conditions affecting head and neck movements can cause feeding problems.
9. Medications: Certain medications can impact appetite or cause drowsiness, affecting feeding habits.
10. Sensory Issues: Sensitivity to textures, smells, or tastes can cause feeding challenges.
11. Behavioral Challenges: Issues with behavior may interfere with eating, such as refusal to eat or sensory aversions.

With early intervention and specialized speech therapy and occupational therapy, we help children with feeding disorders navigate these challenges and improve their feeding habits.

Signs and Symptoms of Feeding Problems

Recognizing the symptoms of feeding difficulties is crucial for timely intervention. At Esperanza, we provide thorough assessments to help identify feeding disorders in children. Here are some common signs that your child may be experiencing feeding issues:

• Arching back or crying during feeding
• Difficulty sucking or withdrawing from the bottle or breast
• Trouble breathing or choking while eating or drinking
• Refusal to eat or drink certain foods or liquids
• Preference for specific textures or behaviors such as holding food in the mouth
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing
• Frequent coughing, gagging, or drooling during meals
• Gurgling or heavy breathing after meals
• Frequent spitting up or vomiting

If your child exhibits any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek the help of a qualified speech therapist or occupational therapist for a comprehensive evaluation and tailored treatment plan.

Prevalence of Feeding Disorders in Children

Diagnosis of Feeding Disorders

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. At Esperanza, our team of speech therapists provides a thorough assessment to determine the nature and cause of your child’s feeding disorder. Our comprehensive evaluation includes:

1. Examination of Tongue and Oral Structures: Evaluating the physical structures involved in feeding.
2. Assessment of Pharyngeal Muscle Movement: Monitoring muscle function during swallowing.
3. Evaluation of Oral-Motor Skills: Assessing how well your child moves their mouth and tongue during eating.
4. Sensory Sensitivities: Identifying sensitivities to textures or temperatures that affect feeding.
5. Eating Behaviors Observation: Observing how your child behaves during meals, including any refusal or difficulty eating.

Treatment of Feeding Disorders for Children in Dubai, UAE

1. Feeding Therapy: Specialized speech therapy techniques to help children develop proper eating habits and improve coordination during feeding.
2. Texture Modification: Adjusting food textures to help children swallow safely and comfortably.
3. Medications: Prescribed medications to manage reflux or other underlying conditions affecting feeding.
4. Behavioral Interventions: Strategies to address refusal to eat or sensory aversions to certain textures or foods.

For professional feeding disorder treatment in Dubai, trust the expert team at Esperanza. Contact us today at +971 55 524 1094 or visit https://esperanzaelc.com to schedule a consultation.