Learn more about VAST Health

Our Mission

Like hypertension, swallowing dysfunction is a silent disease: dangerous when missed, manageable when caught early. Our mission is to make swallow screening as routine as checking blood pressure.

What is Swallowing Dysfunction?

Swallowing is something most of us never think about, until it becomes difficult.

Every time you eat, drink, or even swallow saliva, over 25 muscles work together to move food safely from your mouth, down your throat, and into your stomach. When any part of this process doesn't work properly, it leads to swallowing dysfunction.

Why Does It Matter?

Swallowing dysfunction is a silent disease. Many people don't realize they have it until serious complications occur:

Choking

Coughing during meals

Pneumonia from food or liquid entering the lungs (aspiration)

Weight loss and malnutrition from avoiding food

Dehydration from difficulty drinking

Who is at Risk?

Swallowing dysfunction is a silent disease. Many people don't realize they have it until serious complications occur:

  • Cancer survivors particularly those who have had treatment to the head or neck

  • Anyone recovering from surgery or prolonged hospitalization

  • Older Adults

  • People with neurological conditions like stroke, Parkinson's, ALS, or dementiaAnyone recovering from surgery or prolonged hospitalization

  • People with gastro-esophageal reflux or disorders in their esophagus

Signs to Watch For

  • Frequent respiratory infections

  • A "wet" or gurgly voice after swallowing

  • Avoiding certain foods because they're hard to swallow

  • Taking longer than usual to finish meals

  • Coughing or throat clearing before, during, or after eating

  • Food feeling stuck in your throat or chest

  • Unexplained weight loss

Solution

When caught early, swallowing dysfunction can be managed, preventing life-threatening complications and improving quality of life. That's why we built VAST.