Swallowing recovery after a stroke
swallowing problems after stroke · dysphagia after stroke · swallowing therapy · cannot swallow after stroke
A specialist checks how the person swallows and teaches exercises and techniques so food does not go into the airways. Safe food is chosen.
When after a stroke a person chokes, coughs while eating, or has trouble swallowing.
⏱ Duration: a session usually takes 30 to 45 minutes; a course lasts weeks or months
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Food. Do not give food or water until the specialist has checked swallowing. Ask the clinic.
- Position. Eat sitting upright, not lying down.
- Teeth. Dentures and mouth care are important. Bring the dentures.
What to bring
- Stroke discharge papers
- Dentures
- A list of medicines
How it goes
- The specialist examines the mouth, tongue and voice
- Gives a small amount of water or food of different thickness to try
- Sometimes a swallowing test with a camera or X-ray is ordered
- Teaches exercises for the tongue, lips and throat
- Chooses the thickness of food and drinks
- Shows the family how to feed safely
What you'll feel
- The exercises do not hurt but are tiring
- Thickened drinks taste unfamiliar at first
Afterwards
- Eat sitting up, slowly, in small bites
- Do not talk or watch TV while eating
- Stay upright for 20 to 30 minutes after a meal
- Keep the mouth clean
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Chokes, cannot cough it up and is gasping: call your local emergency number
- Fever, cough, shortness of breath: pneumonia is possible, call your doctor
- Refuses food and is losing weight quickly
Common questions
Why thicken water?
Thick liquid is easier to swallow and less likely to go into the airways.
Will swallowing recover?
In many people swallowing improves in the first weeks and months. Exercises help.