Frequency and factors associated with dysphagia in stroke

Purpose: To investigate the frequency of dysphagia in acute stroke and the possible associated clinical and sociodemographic features. Method: A cross-sectional study was performed including 100 stroke patients who were admitted to the Minas Gerais Regional Public Hospital. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected, and the patients underwent clinical evaluation through the Gugging Swallowing Screen (GUSS). Results: The frequency of dysphagia was 50%, and most patients had severe swallowing disorders. Only a previous history of stroke was associated with dysphagia (p=0.02). Other sociodemographic and clinical variables were not associated with dysphagia, suggesting that the location and the pathophysiology of stroke did not influence its occurrence and severity. Conclusion: The frequency of dysphagia after stroke is high, being a previous stroke an important risk factor for subsequent stroke.