How Do You Help With Swallowing Problems Associated With Chronic Illness?
Swallowing is, for the most part, a process you do not think about too often. Chewing your food and pushing it toward the back of your mouth both require conscious effort. After that, the process is basically automatic or involuntary. People with certain diseases, including a number of chronic conditions, experience trouble with some part of the swallowing process. Doctors and speech-language pathologists can determine exactly where the problem occurs and treat it accordingly. Doctors may prescribe medicines or surgical procedures if the problem is serious or difficult to ease with alternate strategies. Unresolved problems can lead to serious infections or additional troubles. Short of medicines and surgery, this list provides some ideas to try to help with your swallowing difficulties. Pay attention and eat slowly. Be conscious of chewing carefully and swallowing every bite. Distractions often lead to problems. Chew your food completely, taking smaller bites each time. Follow the food
