Swallowing disorders, or dysphagia, result from various neurological diseases, including but not limited to Parkinson's Disease, Stroke, and Dementia. Using FEES (Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallow) we are able to perform an in-office swallow evaluation to determine muscle groups that may be impacting your ability to eat and drink safely. This exam, or if you have recently had a FEES or other diagnostic study, will determine if follow up treatment is indicated and if so, a personalized therapy program will be developed.
Vocal changes may be a direct result of an underlying disorder – vocal fold polyps and nodules, chronic hoarseness, muscle tension from overusing the voice, vocal fold weakness or paralysis, head and neck cancer, and general atrophy in relation to aging (presbyphonia) are just a few. It is strongly encouraged that an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) physician is involved in your care prior to seeking help from a Speech-Language Pathologist. We can then intervene with an individualized treatment plan to address exercises, strategies, and vocal hygiene. In addition, we offer Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT) as a potential therapy option for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease.
Different parts of the brain house certain functions for an individual to successfully perform activities of daily living. Comprehension and expression as well as memory, attention/concentration, problem solving, and a variety of other functions can be impaired to different degrees following Stroke, traumatic brain injury, and progressive illnesses such as Parkinson’s Disease and dementia. We are able to address these deficits allowing for improved quality of life as well as caregiver education and training.
Speech deficits, or dysarthria, are common amongst individuals with neurological disorders. An evaluation will focus on oral and respiratory muscle function. Based on results of the evaluation a treatment program will be developed to target articulation, breath support, volume, and/or rate of speech.
Shari Ferman is the owner and chief Endoscopist, who is also a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist practicing in Illinois, Indiana, and other midwestern states. Shari attended Syracuse University for her undergraduate degree and furthered her education at California State University, Los Angeles where she graduated in 2004 with a Master of Art in Speech-Language Pathology.
Find out more about Shari here
“Shari was professional and kind. She explained the FEES procedure very well, as well as what I was seeing on the screen with my swallowing. I have hearing and vision loss and she took her time explaining everything and was very patient with me. She took time sanitizing everything and wore all the protective equipment to keep me safe from COVID and other germs.”
“Thank you for being patient and kind.”
“My father was nervous but your explanations and compassion put him at ease. He was eager to continue with therapy.”
