Try: #a cr who is choking or having trouble swallowing should be seen by a doctor the caregiver will want to make sure the doctor is looking for physical problems in the pharynx or esophagus among other things #an evaluation of how the cr is swallowing is done by a speech therapist the cr’s primary care doctor can refer the cr for an evaluation of swallowing function #if these evaluations show nothing abnormal have a dentist look at any tooth gum or mouth problems that may be creating a problem #talk to the cr’s physician about using a thickening agent to make swallowing certain foods or liquids easier fluids that have an almost honey-like consistency are usually easier to swallow #encourage the cr to take small amounts of food at a time to chew slowly and when swallowing to lower his or her chin slightly these will promote safer swallowing #six small meals per day may be less fatiguing to a person with swallowing difficulties than eating three regular-sized meals

Materials: Medical evaluations thickening agents if recommended

Categories: Medical Physical, Mobility, Mobile, Needs Some Assistance, Needs Much Assistance, Immobile, Independence, Some Supervision, Fully Aware, Somewhat Aware

Information: n/a

References: n/a

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*This information is listed as a Tip and is not explicitly medically licensed