Speech and language therapy
Speech and language therapists support children with cancer who have questions or difficulties related to eating, drinking, swallowing, and communication. Saliva control and oral hygiene are also part of their work. The speech and language therapist helps find solutions for facial palsy, swallowing difficulties, or situations in which speaking is difficult or not possible. After discharge from the hospital, we arrange a handover to a speech and language therapist close to home.
Eating and drinking in children with cancer
Children with cancer may have difficulty swallowing. The speech and language therapist assesses which food and drink consistencies can be eaten or drunk safely and efficiently. The therapist also helps find a comfortable and safe swallowing posture to prevent choking. He or she visits regularly and, together with the child and parents, looks at whether next steps can be taken in eating and drinking. This is coordinated with the nurse and the treating physician.
Good oral hygiene is essential, as children with cancer are more vulnerable to infections. In the hospital, a dental hygienist is also involved. Part of speech and language therapy focuses on optimizing saliva control and oral care in collaboration with other disciplines.
If posture plays a role in swallowing difficulties, we work together with the physical therapist and occupational therapist.
If needed, we look at a combination of oral feeding and tube feeding, and we support the gradual introduction or reduction of tube feeding. In this process, we work closely with the dietitian involved.
Communication in children with cancer
If speaking is difficult, the speech and language therapist investigates the cause of the speech problems. We assess whether there is a communication need and look for ways to support communication. Sometimes Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is used temporarily, such as communicating with signs (Sign Supported Dutch), using photos or pictograms via an app, or typing words.
In children who have difficulty understanding language, reading, writing, or expressing themselves, aphasia may play a role. Good diagnostics are essential. Language assessments are often carried out in collaboration with the hospital, primary care, or a rehabilitation center. Language problems can be subtle and sometimes only become apparent when the child returns to school, for example.
Speech and language therapy advice and treatment often start in the hospital and are later continued in pediatric rehabilitation or primary care. We maintain regular contact with these healthcare professionals to ensure good coordination of care.
Facial palsy
In cases of facial palsy, the speech and language therapist is often involved from the very beginning. Questions about eating and drinking, such as preventing spillage, are discussed regularly. The therapist provides advice on relaxing the muscles and promoting symmetrical facial movement. From the hospital, a speech and language therapist or specialized mime therapist is involved, who refers the child to specialized providers in the region for follow-up treatment. During treatment, direct lines of communication make it possible to monitor recovery and provide feedback to the treating physicians.