Swallowing problems can result from a catastrophic illness or injury, and the family's role is very important in implementing the swallowing precautions recommended by the rehabilitation team. Explained in this pamphlet are the stages of the normal swallowing sequence, symptoms of a swallowing disorder, medical conditions associated with swallowing disorders, treatments designed to improve swallowing, videoflouroscopy, alternative means of feeding, and the role of family members. Treatments to improve swallowing include exercises; thermal stimulation; patient positioning; and monitoring the consistency of food and liquids, amount of food and liquid taken per swallow, time between swallows, sensory cues, and environmental distractions. (JDD)