How do I fix this?

[Guest guest]

Would you guys please offer some suggestions? I'm running out of ideas.

I had surgery Wednesday 12/6/06. I am having a really hard time trying

to swallow. It started in the hospital right after the surgery but I

didn't want to look like I was whining about petty things so I didn't

say anything. I assumed it was probably normal all things considered.

Besides, it kept me from eating (drinking?) too much and kept the

calories down and that part was a good thing.

Gatorade, for example. I have tried using a straw, sipping, gulping,

everything. I tried tipping my head back and I just choke. As soon as

the fluid hits the back of my throat it is as though I forgot how to

swallow. Or my brain won't tell my throat what to do. It's hard to

explain. I even tried to force myself to swallow and it still doesn't

work. I'm not sure if it is getting worse or if I am growing more

impatient.

I have tried various fluids, broth, Gatorade, juice, water... all the

same. I have tried to see if hot fluids, cold fluids, or room

temperature fluids make a difference, it doesn't. I tried thicker

fluids (my cough syrup), I've tried crushed ice, ice cubes, I just

can't swallow it easily. It feels weird because while I am thirsty and

I really want to drink something I just can't do it well. My throat

does not cooperate.

I am averaging about 150 calories and 12-15 ounces of fluids daily.

While weight loss is fantastic I am sure it is just water weight. I am

down 12 pounds in 4 days. This is really becoming annoying.

Did you guys have the same problem and how did you fix it? Does it go

away with time? Any tips or tricks from the old timers?

Thanks!