Treatment
In the treatment of swallowing disorders (dysphagia), the declared aim is to regain the ability to swallow and subsequently to provide oral nutrition. The therapy is carried out by specially trained physiotherapy/occupational therapy specialists. Initially, the focus is on learning the basic requirements for safe eating and drinking. This means that the patient:
- is awake and alert
- can sit stably in an upright position
- has control of mouth, tongue, breathing and vocalization
- is able to cough quickly and forcefully in the event of choking
The first therapeutic goals are to ensure safe swallowing of saliva and to provide the necessary protective mechanisms (clearing the throat/coughing) to prevent swallowing. Only then does the gradual build-up of food and fluid intake begin. Meals are gradually adapted to the severity of the swallowing disorder until normal swallowing is achieved. If the patient is unable to eat and drink safely for a longer period of time, they are fed directly into the stomach via a tube.
Close cooperation with the specialist areas of nursing, nutritional advice, speech therapy and voice therapy is crucial for successful therapy.