Help for Difficulty With Swallowing
When a person is exhibiting difficulty with swallowing, modifications to diet and feeding techniques need to be started. Your healthcare provider will likely either do the swallowing evaluation thenselves, or send your loved one to a specialist that deals with speech and swallowing problems. There in the United states, they are often referred to as "Speech Pathologists." The person performing the evaluation, if they find a problem with swallowing, will instruct you on a specialized diet for your loved one. This is called a Dysphagia Diet.
Dysphagia diets are presented generally in three levels, varying in the consistancy of the food and liquid.
Dysphagia III consists of chopped food and normal consistancy for liquids.
Dysphagia II consists of ground foods, and either normal or mildly thickened liquids.
Dysphagia I consists of pureed foods, and liquids that are thickened to at least nectar consistancy, or even thicker (up to pudding consistancy).
Dysphagia I is the type most commonly used for individuals that are at risk for aspiration.
Thickened liquids can be purchased commercially prepared, or a thickening agent can be added, a little at a time, until the desired consistancy is achieved. Practice is the key here. Thickening agents can generally be purchased through medical supply firms, or often through your local hospital.
Some of the tips that are taught include:
1) Position patient as upright as possible for all oral intake
2) Remain in upright position for 30 minutes after intake
3) Offer small bites, placing toward the back of mouth if possible
4) Tilt head down for swallowing (chin tuck)
5) Swallow a minimum of two times per bite of food
6) Alternate between liquid and solid intake
7) Ensure oral area is clear before introducing more food or liquid
8) Monitor for aspiration. Discontinue if episodes of coughing, choking, wet vocal quality, prolonged throat clearing and/or struggling behavior occurs.
If Problems Develop, Contact Physician Immediately!
Return to Caregiving Info Index
Return to Main Index
