Detecting Aspiration Risk in Stroke Patients Using the Water Swallow Test (WST)

Abstract Background The 3-ounce water swallow test (WST) is a widely used method during clinical (bed side) examination for screening of individuals who are at risk for oropharyngeal dysphagia and aspiration. Stroke represents the most frequent cause of neurological dysphagia. Aim of the Work The aim of this study is to detect the risk of aspiration in stroke patients using the 3-ounce water swallow test. Patients and Method This study included 40 stroke patients recruited from the Phoniatrics unit of Ain Shams University Hospitals. They were subjected to history taking, clinical assessment and the 3-ounce WST. Results The results of the 3-ounce Water Swallow Test showed that 18 (45%) patients had a positive test. Conclusion Almost half of participants are at risk of aspiration.