Tag: Swallowing
-
Not Nectar (Mildly) Thick: The Truth About Carbonated Beverages and Dysphagia
Carbonated beverages are being explored in dysphagia management as a sensory strategy to enhance swallowing safety, not as thickened liquids. Research indicates carbonation may stimulate the Trigeminal nerve, potentially improving swallow function for some patients. However, effectiveness varies individually, necessitating personalized assessment rather than substitution for thickened liquids.
Written by
·
-
Compliance or Choice? Rethinking the “Noncompliant” Dysphagia Patient
The post discusses evolving perspectives on patient noncompliance in dysphagia management. It suggests reframing noncompliance as patient choice, emphasizing the importance of education and support rather than discharge. Highlighting that not all aspirators contract pneumonia, it advocates for individualized approaches in therapy that empower patients to make informed decisions about their care and safety.
Written by
·
-
Trying Gelmix: A USDA Organic Thickener for Dysphagia
Gelmix is a USDA Organic thickener designed for infants and children under three, suitable for thickening liquids like breast milk and formula. Composed of organic carob bean gum, tapioca maltodextrin, and calcium carbonate, it’s effective when mixed in warm liquids. Contraindicated for premature infants and those with galactomannan allergies, it offers gradual thickening and a…
Written by
·
-
Measuring Lingual Range of Motion
The content emphasizes the importance of measuring lingual range of motion in addition to strength for effective tongue function assessment. A new validated scale categorizes tongue movement into four domains: protrusion, lateralization, and elevation. This comprehensive approach, especially for post-oral surgery patients, enhances evaluations, treatment planning, and overall quality of life outcomes.
Written by
·
-
The Dummies Guide to Dysphagia
Dysphagia often goes unnoticed until it affects eating and drinking. Educating patients about swallowing is crucial in therapy. Swallowing involves complex muscle coordination and various cranial nerves. To treat dysphagia effectively, understanding its anatomy and utilizing evidence-based strategies are essential for rebuilding strength and coordination necessary for safe swallowing.
Written by
·
-
Integrating Respiratory Patterns into Your Clinical Swallow Exam
Assessing respiration during swallow evaluations is crucial for patients with dysphagia, as proper coordination can prevent aspiration. Observational techniques, cervical auscultation, and Modified Barium Swallow Studies can help identify risks. Effective strategies should focus on maintaining the natural breathing-swallowing rhythm to enhance safety and therapeutic outcomes.
Written by
·
-
The Great Thickener Challenge
The Great Thickener Challenge explores various thickening options for patients needing modified liquids. After sampling several brands, participants preferred Simply Thick due to its pleasant taste and consistency. Concerns about the use of thickened liquids impact hydration and aspiration risks, emphasizing the need for careful recommendations and education on dysphagia.
Written by
·