Swallowing
A swallow test is one of the first hospital assessments. Initially this involves seeing if the person can swallow a little bit of water without coughing or choking.
If the person has any difficulties swallowing, they will be seen by a speech and language therapist, who can assess the problem and work out a diet that is easy to eat. Some people will need puréed solid food and thickened drinks. A dietician will make sure the diet has all the right nutrients.
Whether the person who has had a stroke is feeding themself or having help, they will have to learn how to sit correctly and proper eating methods to prevent food and drink from getting into their windpipe (this is called aspiration).
In severe cases, if a person cannot eat by mouth, special feeding techniques might be used. Nasogastric feeding is when a tube is passed up the nose and down the throat to get food into the stomach. Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a feeding tube that goes into the stomach directly through the abdominal wall.
Tips for safe swallowing
- Make mealtimes quiet and relaxed - don’t rush.
- Have small, frequent meals.
- Only take a teaspoon at a time and make sure you have swallowed it before
having any more. - Don’t mix food and drink in the same mouthful.
- Don’t try to talk when you are eating.
- Sit upright for half an hour after each meal.
Links
Audio version - Stroke rehabilitation (2977 kb)
Brain attack
Recovery and rehabilitation
Physiotherapy
Occupational therapy
Speech and language therapy
Vision
Using the toilet
Psychological changes
Helping rehabilitation
Support at home
Rehabilitation in the community
