Why might this patient have more difficulty using a regular straw than a cup? Why might shortening the length of the straw improve his swallowing performance?

A 75-year old patient with respiratory disease Show more Dysphagia: Clinical Management in Adults and Children A 75-year old patient with respiratory disease was evaluated for difficulties swallowing liquids. Physical evaluation revealed that he had generalized weakness in the lips and tongue. He could take his liquids from a cup without any coughing episodes but he had some coughing while using a regular straw. The patient reported that he was more comfortable using a straw and preferred it to the cup. The SLP cut the straw in half and the patient then took his liquids with the straw without any difficulty. Why might this patient have more difficulty using a regular straw than a cup? Why might shortening the length of the straw improve his swallowing performance? Show less