Impact of Communication and Swallowing Dysfunction

Head and neck cancer, as well as the treatment for head and neck cancer, can result in communication and swallowing dysfunction before and during treatment, as well as throughout survivorship. This chapter provides a detailed overview of the impact these dysfunctions can have on an individual patient’s well-being and quality of life (QOL). Key elements of psychological well-being and quality of life are defined. Risk factors for dysfunction and reduced quality of life are outlined, as well as methods for identifying QOL decline. The physiology of normal speech production and swallowing are described. Causes and symptoms of dysphonia, aphonia, dysphagia, and dysarthria are detailed, along with their potential psychosocial effects. The role of the speech-language pathologist is described, along with the importance of multidisciplinary care, therapeutic counseling, and support groups.