Please note that there is a fee for this test. Payment can be made by debit, Mastercard or Visa.

Before your visit, please follow any instructions that were given to you when you received your appointment.

You will meet with an SLP who will perform the FEES test. You may be given a numbing spray on your nose to make the test more comfortable.

The SLP will then insert a thin tube with a camera through your nose and into your throat.

You will be asked to swallow a small amount of food or liquid. The SLP will watch how you are swallowing on a computer screen. This will allow them to see:

• If food is going into your airway instead of your esophagus (food pipe)
• Which parts of your throat might not be working well
• What you can do to help you swallow more safely

The FEES test will take about 30 to 40 minutes to complete.

The SLP will then work with you to create a treatment plan and talk about which foods and drinks are safer for you.

• OHIP card or other health insurance information
• A method of payment
• A list of your medications and supplements
• A list of questions you want to ask
• Any medication you might need to take while at the clinic
• Any aids you use, such as a walker, hearing aids or glasses
• A friend or family member for support, if you choose

You will need a referral from a physician to schedule a test.

Please send the FEES referral form to [email protected] or by fax to 647-788-0718.

Please note that there is a fee for this test. Payment can be made by debit, Mastercard or Visa.

What is a FEES test?
A FEES test is used to assess if you have any problems swallowing food or liquid. An SLP passes a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope through your nose and into your throat. This allows the SLP to see how well you swallow different kinds of food and liquid.

It is important to know if you have swallowing problems because if food or liquid goes into your lungs or airway, that can cause pneumonia and other problems. The FEES test can help identify foods or liquids to avoid or perhaps positions for swallowing more safely.

Is a FEES test painful?
A FEES test can be uncomfortable, but the SLP will work with you to make the experience as painless as possible. The SLP may give you a numbing spray on your nose to ease discomfort.

You may experience a gagging sensation during the test. And after the test, your nose or throat may feel sore for a short period of time.

You will be able to return to your normal routine on the same day.

When will I get my results?
The SLP will be able to explain your results to you immediately following the test. If you have trouble swallowing, the SLP may recommend changing the foods you eat or liquids that you drink. You may also learn other methods to help you swallow more safely.