Editorial

Neurogenic dysphagia: the role of the neurologist The dual role of the oropharynx as a conduit for air and nutrition means that neurogenic dysphagia causes morbid-ity or death from (1) upper airway obstruction; (2) aspira-tion causing chemical pneumonitis or small airway obstruction with distal collapse and secondary infection; (3) dehydration and malnutrition A slowed ability to eat a meal, loss of salivary control with drooling, episodic coughing, and choking and nasal regurgitation also cause considerable distress. As well as their role in the diagnosis of the underlying disease, neurologists are well placed to help elucidate the mechanism of the dysphagia and to give advice in a multi-disciplinary context about dysphagia management bearing in mind the patient’s diagnosis, prognosis, and disability. Understanding of normal bulbar function and the methods of assessment and treatment have each improved in recent years. Normal function1–3 Cranial nerve involvement in bolus preparation (V—moto