FEES Swallowing Assessment in London: What to Expect and Why It Matters

Have you ever coughed while eating or felt food “stuck” in your throat?
If so, you’re not alone. You might benefit from a diagnostic procedure called FEES. That stands for Fibreoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing, and it is one of the most effective ways to evaluate swallowing difficulties.

In this blog, you will learn what a FEES swallowing assessment involves, who it is for, how it feels, and why Dr Eirini Lentari, a London-based ENT consultant, is a top choice for this type of evaluation.

What Is a FEES Swallowing Assessment?

FEES is a specialist ENT test that allows your clinician to observe how your throat functions while you swallow. A soft, flexible camera is gently inserted through your nose, giving a clear real-time view of your pharynx and larynx during the swallowing process.

One of its key advantages is that it uses no radiation. The test is carried out while you're fully awake, seated upright, and able to communicate throughout. It focuses specifically on the pharyngeal and laryngeal phases of swallowing, meaning it does not assess the oral or oesophageal phases.

The video recording provides valuable information about the safety and efficiency of your swallow. This is especially important for people who may be silently aspirating (when food enters the airway without a cough response).

Who Might Benefit from a FEES Test?

Swallowing issues can happen for many reasons. FEES is commonly used in:

• Post-stroke care

• Neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s or multiple sclerosis

• Reflux-related hoarseness

• Frequent throat clearing or coughing after meals

• Unexplained voice changes or laryngeal discomfort

• Recurrent chest infections

• Head and neck cancer recovery

• Voice strain or fatigue in professional speakers or singers

If you have been told your symptoms are not serious, or you are frustrated by a lack of answers, FEES provides visual proof of what is happening in your throat.

What Happens During the Test?

Step-by-Step Walkthrough

1. Initial Conversation
   Dr Lentari will ask about your symptoms and medical history, then explain the process clearly.
   
   
   

2. Camera Insertion
   A fine endoscope is passed through one nostril and positioned just above the vocal cords. Most patients tolerate this well, describing it as mildly uncomfortable but brief.
   
   
   

3. Swallowing Practice
   You will be given sips of coloured liquid, soft food, and perhaps a biscuit or yoghurt to assess different textures.
   
   
   

4. Observation and Recording
   The camera records each swallow as you eat and drink. Dr Lentari can see how well food passes down and whether anything enters the airway.

Please note: The FEES test specifically evaluates the pharyngeal and laryngeal phases of swallowing. It does not assess the oral or oesophageal phases, which may require other types of investigations.

5. Immediate Results
   You will receive verbal feedback straight away. A written report and plan will follow, often shared with speech and language therapists if required.

What Can FEES Reveal?

FEES is used to diagnose:

• Aspiration and silent aspiration

• Weak swallow coordination

• Delayed swallow reflex

• Pharyngeal residue (leftover food in the throat)

• Laryngeal movement issues

• Voice and reflux-related problems

Results from the test can lead to changes in diet, postural techniques, therapy plans, or additional referrals.

What Does the FEES Test Feel Like?

Most patients find the test manageable and much easier than expected. The camera is thin and flexible, and it takes less than 10 minutes once in position. You may feel slight pressure in your nose or eyes watering, but this passes quickly.

Because the test is done while you are awake, it reflects your natural swallow better than imaging done lying down or under sedation.

Why Choose Dr Eirini Lentari for Your Swallowing Assessment?

Dr Lentari is one of few ENT specialists in London offering private FEES testing. She brings:

• Over 25 years of ENT and voice experience

• A PhD in laryngeal cancer

• Postgraduate fellowship in phoniatrics (voice and swallowing)

• Clinics in Canning Town, Harley Street, and Battersea

• A collaborative approach with SLTs and other allied health professionals

• Recognition by patients as a top-rated provider in 2024

You will receive a personalised plan and immediate answers, not just a referral.

See Dr. Eirini’s FEES Service (Link to FEES page)

Where to Book a FEES Swallowing Test in London

Dr Lentari performs FEES at:

• Northway Clinic, Canning Town

• Phoenix Hospital, Harley Street

• LIPS Healthcare, Battersea Power Station

No GP referral is needed. Self-pay and insured patients are welcome.

Final Thoughts

Swallowing difficulties can be stressful and isolating, especially when you do not know what is causing them. A FEES test offers clarity and a path forward. With the help of an experienced ENT like Dr Eirini Lentari, you can receive fast answers, appropriate care, and peace of mind.

Book your FEES swallowing assessment in London today and take the first step toward safer, more comfortable swallowing.

Call: 020 38709973
Email: lentari.admin@lips.org.uk

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