Dysphagia and Social Media: A Guide to Supporting Your Journey
Swallowing disorders remain common today, particularly in older individuals. Many things can lead to this diagnosis, including head and neck cancers or dementia. Doctors provide a diagnosis after conducting a swallow study or other diagnostic testing. Once a person has received this diagnosis and better understands the condition, they need a treatment plan and a guide to help them on this journey. The following guide is an excellent starting point for men and women with this condition.
Dietary Changes
Once the underlying cause of dysphagia has been determined, a speech-language pathologist creates a treatment plan for dysphagia, which may include medications and exercises. Dietary changes are also part of most treatment plans today, as people with dysphagia typically need their food and liquids thickened. Thickening food and liquids makes them easier to swallow while reducing the risk of aspiration. SimplyThick social media has excellent information on thickening food and liquids. Every person should visit this resource to learn more.
Thickener Mixes
Many people today use products to thicken their food and liquids at home. They mix the product into their food or drink to alter its consistency. These products are starch- or gum-based, each with advantages and drawbacks. People find it easy to mix starch-based thickeners. However, these products tend to change consistency, particularly when refrigerated. Gum-based thickeners don't change consistency. Testing for consistency is essential to ensure the person doesn't have problems swallowing their food or liquids.
The fork drip test involves checking the food or drink to see whether it flows through the tines or remains on top. A fork might also be used to see how the food changes when pressured with the fork's tines. Finally, a gravity flow test also tests a food or liquid's consistency.
Ready-to-Go Food and Liquids
When people are on the go, they may not have the time to thicken their food or drinks. Ready-to-go products allow them to get the nutrition they need quickly and easily. Various options are offered today, so people can find items they like and take them wherever they go.
Transitional Foods
Transitional foods are those that change consistency when chewed. Ice cream is an excellent example because it melts when exposed to heat. Once a person puts ice cream in their mouth, it changes consistency. Certain crackers change consistency when exposed to moisture, so it can be challenging for people to know how to consume these foods safely. With the help of their speech-language pathologist or a registered dietitian, men and women can include transitional foods in their diets.
Recipes for Dysphagia
Many people worry that they will need to eat a bland diet when they have been diagnosed with dysphagia. There is no reason to do so, as plenty of recipes can be made so they are easy to swallow. Work with a registered dietitian to come up with meals all family members can eat and enjoy.
Swallowing Exercises
In addition to choosing foods carefully and thickening them as needed, men and women with dysphagia should do swallowing exercises at home. The speech-language pathologist will examine the patient and develop an exercise program that meets their unique needs. When needed, visit the National Foundation of Swallowing Disorders for a refresher on these exercises.
Dysphagia affects many individuals today, particularly senior citizens. A person can manage this condition with the right treatment plan and diet. Use social media and other resources to learn more and live a high quality of life while addressing the swallowing disorder.
