It might sound strange, but something as simple as swallowing could provide important insights into your overall health.
Researchers have discovered that the number of times you can swallow in just half a minute may be an early sign of serious conditions such as cancer, dementia, or neurological disorders.
Here are 10 things you should know about the test — and why you might want to try it yourself.
What Is RSST?
RSST stands for Repetitive Saliva Swallow Test — a simple method where you count how many times you can swallow your own saliva within 30 seconds. No water or food is required, and it’s designed to identify potential issues with swallowing function.
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What’s a Normal Number of Swallows?
According to the research, the average number of swallows is 7 in 30 seconds. Men typically score slightly higher than women, and younger people generally perform better than older individuals.
Age Plays a Big Role
Results show a clear link between age and the ability to swallow. People in their 20s and 30s average around 8–8.5 swallows, but this number steadily declines with age, dropping to about 4 by the time you’re in your 80s.
Fewer Than 3 Swallows Is a Warning Sign
If you’re only able to swallow two times or fewer within 30 seconds, it’s considered pathological. This could be a red flag for underlying health conditions that may require further investigation.
It’s Not Just About Age
In addition to aging, factors like medication use, BMI, and existing health conditions also impact RSST results. The more of these you have, the lower your swallow count may be.
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Saliva Production Makes a Difference
An interesting finding from the study was that people who produce more saliva perform better in the RSST. A dry mouth might therefore also be a sign of reduced swallowing ability.
Women Score Lower Than Men
On average, women had lower RSST scores than men. Researchers suggest that hormonal differences and body composition could play a role — though further research is needed.
RSST Is Not a Diagnosis — But a Signal
The test itself doesn’t diagnose anything, but it serves as an indicator of whether further medical assessment might be needed. Older adults or those with multiple chronic conditions may benefit from testing themselves periodically.
What Conditions Are Linked to It?
Swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) can stem from many causes — from acid reflux to more serious illnesses like cancers of the throat or esophagus, neurological disorders like Parkinson’s, or muscular conditions such as ALS or muscular dystrophy.
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It Only Takes 30 Seconds
This test is simple to do at home. Sit calmly, relax, and try to swallow as many times as you can in half a minute — without drinking anything. If your number is below the average, it may be worth checking with your doctor.
This article is based on information from Medical Daily
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