Swallow test
Swallowing problems affect over a third of people after a stroke. When a person cannot swallow properly, there is a risk that food and drink may get into the windpipe and so into the lungs (called aspiration), which can lead to chest infections and pneumonia.
The initial swallow test is very simple. The person is given a few teaspoons of water to drink. If they can swallow this without choking and coughing, they will be asked to swallow half a glass of water.
If they have any difficulties with swallowing, they will be referred to the speech and language therapist who will carry out a more detailed clinical swallowing assessment. They will not be allowed to eat and drink without help and if swallowing problems continue for more than a few days, a diet will be worked out to make sure that they get all the nutrition they need in puréed food or thickened drinks. They will also be shown how to eat safely and in the correct position.
An investigation called a videoflouroscopy - a type of video x-ray - can help find out exactly what is causing swallowing problems.
The recovery and quality of life of the person who has had the stroke will be better if they can take food and drink by mouth, but in extreme cases, artificial
feeding methods may be necessary.
Links
A stroke is a brain injury
Hospital tests
Heart and blood vessel tests
Going into hospital
Rehabilitation
From hospital to home
