A resident diagnosed with an ischemic stroke is having difficulty swallowing. What is this condition referred to?

Dysphagia refers to the difficulty or discomfort in swallowing, which is commonly experienced by individuals who have had an ischemic stroke. This condition can arise due to the impact of the stroke on brain regions that control the muscles involved in swallowing. After a stroke, patients may have impaired motor control or coordination, leading to challenges with swallowing solid foods, liquids, or both.

The presence of dysphagia can pose significant risks, such as aspiration pneumonia, malnutrition, and dehydration if not appropriately managed. It's crucial for healthcare providers to assess swallowing ability and implement strategies to ensure safe swallowing and adequate nutrition for the patient.

The other terms listed do not relate to swallowing difficulties. Dysarthria refers to a speech disorder resulting from weakness of the muscles used for speech, dysrhythmia relates to an irregular heartbeat, and dyspnea is the sensation of difficult or uncomfortable breathing. Each of these conditions denotes a very different clinical issue than the swallowing difficulties characterized by dysphagia.