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How can thermal stimulation work to improve the swallowing reflex?

April 26, 2017Reflex stimulation swallowing Thermal

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How can thermal stimulation work to improve the swallowing reflex?

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10 Posted

I don’t know that it improves the reflex, but thermal stimulation can affect swallowing. It has been noted that thermal stimulation (specifically cold stimulation) of the membranes in the back of the throat may improve swallowing in some patients with dysphagia (trouble swallowing). Why this is so is not certain. A variety of stimuli contribute to the initiation of swallowing. Cooling the pharyngeal region may trigger temperature-sensitive receptors that stimulate a swallowing reflex.