# Aspiration warning signs

Canonical: [https://followyourswallow.com/safety/aspiration](https://followyourswallow.com/safety/aspiration)

Aspiration is food or liquid entering the airway. It can happen without a cough.

## During or after meals

- Coughing or throat-clearing
- A wet or gurgly voice after swallowing
- Extra effort, repeated swallows, or food pocketing
- Watery eyes, runny nose, or grimacing with swallows
- Shortness of breath while eating

## Patterns over days or weeks

- Recurring low-grade fevers or chest congestion, especially after meals
- Unintended weight loss or much longer meals
- Avoiding foods or drinks the person used to enjoy

Note when a sign occurs and contact the speech-language pathologist or physician. New trouble breathing, blue lips, or inability to swallow anything is an emergency. Call 911.

Source: [ASHA adult dysphagia guidance](https://www.asha.org/practice-portal/clinical-topics/adult-dysphagia/)