Re: NCU: Cara in O: Swallowing problems

[Guest guest]

Dear Cara....

thanks for the information - it is interesting to learn more about this.........

you are absolutely right about the thicker vs. thinner consistencies...the hardest is water and it goes from there....I tried the chin tuck and it may take practice!!!! Initially it feels like a "choky position"...but i will try it again and let you know if it helps in the long run!!! Also, I wonder if part of the problem is a general tightness in the throat..it's like i exist in this locked up mode/kind of a spasm and I have to focus on relaxing that area before trying to swallow?????

best wishes.....tree

Re: Swallowing problems

Hi Tree, Interesting problem. I have one simple suggestion that may help. First, take a small sip, and then before you swallow, tuck your chin down to your chest and THEN swallow. This simple change in position helps protect your airway so that nothing will head toward your lungs which will make you cough. It is a simple compensatory strategy that helps alot of mild swallow problems. Let me know if you try it...and if it works! Also, sometimes thicker consistencies, like tomato juice or milkshakes go down easier than thin liquids like water, juice, etc.... Take care... Cara in Ohio

[Guest guest]

Dear Cara....

thanks for the information - it is interesting to learn more about this.........

you are absolutely right about the thicker vs. thinner consistencies...the hardest is water and it goes from there....I tried the chin tuck and it may take practice!!!! Initially it feels like a "choky position"...but i will try it again and let you know if it helps in the long run!!! Also, I wonder if part of the problem is a general tightness in the throat..it's like i exist in this locked up mode/kind of a spasm and I have to focus on relaxing that area before trying to swallow?????

best wishes.....tree

Re: Swallowing problems

Hi Tree, Interesting problem. I have one simple suggestion that may help. First, take a small sip, and then before you swallow, tuck your chin down to your chest and THEN swallow. This simple change in position helps protect your airway so that nothing will head toward your lungs which will make you cough. It is a simple compensatory strategy that helps alot of mild swallow problems. Let me know if you try it...and if it works! Also, sometimes thicker consistencies, like tomato juice or milkshakes go down easier than thin liquids like water, juice, etc.... Take care... Cara in Ohio

[Guest guest]

Hi Tree,

I haven't posted in a while since I am having some computer problems, but, I

thought I would check back with you about your swallowing problems. Once you

get used to the chin tuck, it can be a very effective technique. So, take a

small sip and hold it. Before you swallow, tuck your chin down to your

chest. Then, swallow hard. I hope this will help you. If you continue to

have problems, you might want to get it checked out by having a swallowing

test, so the real cause of the problem can be identified.

Relaxation exercises also might help to loosen up the muscles in the throat

area. Keep me posted on how you are doing, Tree. And, everyone have a

wonderful Thanksgiving!

Cara in Ohio