Jim --

Work, work, work on those swallowing exercises -- the epiglottis not closing is not uncommon because it is a dependent organ -- that in, proper closing depends to a large extent on proper functioning of the many muscles and nerves that contribute to the action of swallowing. Also, the epiglottis itself may be physcially damaged (scarred) -- but still strengthening of the swallowing muscles should be a primary goal.

My husband had aspiratuion (in fact, he had an aspiration pneumonia right after treatment ended) & was given about 8 exercises to do by his therapist -- they involved suction, forced (or "hard") swallows, pushing tongue against resistance, and several others. They were supposed to be done 3-4x a day and at least 4-5 times each at each session. When he started the suction, which involved using a straw and using mouth suction to pick up bits of paper, he had to start with bits of tissue. Gradually he was able to move to a (small) post-it note, and then larger and finally, to a post-card-sized piece of paper. This took about 5-6 months and even at a year, the latter was not always easily accomplished. And he ate all the way through treatment, so he was better off than many who were not able to swallow things towards the end.

The moral of this is that it will not be quick, or easy, but it can be accomplished with lots of work. Do not be afraid to ask your therapist for help and if you are having probems as there are many exercises for specific problems, the ones I mentioned abaove are only a smapling.

Gail