PHARYNGEAL SENSATION AND GAG REFLEX IN HEALTHY-SUBJECTS

The gag reflex is often used in the assessment of swallowing, yet its absence does not predict aspiration in acute stroke. Disordered pharyn geal sensation has been found to be a sensitive predictor. The occurre nce of gag reflex and pharyngeal sensation in healthy people is unknow n. We studied these tests in 140 healthy subjects (half elderly and ha lf young). Gag reflex was absent in 37% of subjects whereas pharyngeal sensation was absent in only 1. The results largely explain the low p redictive value of gag reflex in the assessment of aspiration in acute stroke. Testing pharyngeal sensation would be more likely to be usefu l in these circumstances.