Severe Dysphagia Management

Why Good Dysphagia Management Is So Important

Looking after dysphagia the right way makes a big difference. It helps in many ways, like:

Staying Safe

Making sure food and drinks are the right texture reduces the chance of choking and keeps meals worry-free.

Feeling Good

Enjoying meals that suit individual needs can improve well-being and make mealtimes more pleasant.

Getting Proper Nutrition

Having the right food and drink means the body gets the nutrients it needs to stay strong and full of energy.

Peace of Mind

Families and carers feel more confident knowing their loved ones are eating safely and getting the support they need.

Preventing Problems

Spotting swallowing difficulties early can help avoid serious health issues and unnecessary hospital visits.

What Happens If Dysphagia Is Not Managed Well?

If dysphagia isn't handled correctly, it can lead to:

Choking Hazards

Eating the wrong foods or drinking thin liquids can increase the risk of choking, which can be dangerous.

Breathing Problems

Food going down the wrong way can cause infections like pneumonia.

Poor Nutrition

Not eating enough or getting the right nutrients can lead to weight loss and weakness.

Stress at Mealtimes

Struggling to eat can make people anxious or scared when it’s time to eat.



Loss of Independence

When meals become difficult, people may start to feel frustrated or lose confidence in their abilities.

Practical Ways to Manage Dysphagia Effectively

There are several things that can be done to make sure eating and drinking are safe and enjoyable.

Specialised Training

Carers and family members should know how to prepare meals, assist with eating, and handle emergencies.

Individual Meal Plans

A meal plan created with experts like dietitians and speech pathologists can make sure food textures and drink thickness are just right.

Texture-Modified Foods

Some people may need their food to be soft, pureed, or cut into smaller pieces to make it easier to swallow.

Proper Positioning

Sitting upright while eating and avoiding distractions can help prevent choking.

Watching Closely

Keeping an eye on how someone is eating can help catch any problems early and make sure meals go smoothly.



Being Ready for Emergencies

Knowing what to do if someone chokes, including first aid steps, can save lives.

Things to Keep in Mind for Safer Eating

Recognising the Signs of Dysphagia

Look out for signs like coughing while eating, taking too long to finish meals, a wet-sounding voice, or frequent chest infections.

Avoiding High-Risk Foods

Hard, dry, or sticky foods like nuts, bread, and raw vegetables can be difficult to swallow safely.

Medication Checks

Some medicines can make swallowing harder, so it’s good to review them regularly with a healthcare professional.



Using Special Utensils

Special cups, plates, and cutlery can make eating easier and more enjoyable.

Keeping Food Safe and Healthy

Good food hygiene is important to avoid infections and keep meals safe.

How to Keep Food Safe

• Wash hands and surfaces regularly.
• Store food at the right temperature.
• Use separate tools for raw and cooked foods.
• Follow special dietary needs carefully.

The Dangers of Poor Hygiene

Not handling food properly can lead to:

• Food poisoning.
• Serious allergic reactions.
• Bacteria spreading between foods