Hi, I’m the carer for a brother with M.S who has swallowing difficulties but refuses to use thickeners or modify his diet to help with the swallowing. He has difficulties feeding himself but he refuses to drink thickened liquids. I’m worried for him. Is there anyone else in a similar situation. How do you deal with this? So you feel informed about the risks??
Hi Mellymoo,
I once went for a scan on my throat because I was having problems with swallowing.
I was advised to eat soft food, to make sure I cut my food up into smaller portions, to chew my food more and to drink water at every meal, to help me swallow
I find it difficult to always do this, because like everyone else I enjoy a good meal and actually admitting I have a problem in the basic task is annoying.
Just try putting a glass of water out for every meal, its only a smal thin but if he needs it, it’s there.
Yours, Andy
Hi Mellymoo,
My mum was recently having difficulty swallowing and then chewing solids so I blended or mashed meals and fed her with a spoon. I think the smell of food helps, can you cook him his favourite food so he can smell it and then blend it?
Have you had a visit or advice from a Speech and Swallowing therapist?
There doesnt have to be a speech problem, it`s just that the therapists deal with either or both!
Ask your GP for a referral. Or maybe you can ring them yourself, not sure.
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