Q. Why can't the patient eat normal food?
Sometimes after a brain injury the muscles and nerves that are used in the swallowing
process may be affected. Damage to any of these muscles or nerves makes swallowing
difficult.
A Speech Pathologist will assess how well the muscles and reflexes for swallowing are working, and will then recommend a suitable diet. If unsuitable food is given to someone who has swallowing problems it can cause aspiration (when food and drink enters the wind pipe and lungs) and this may lead to pneumonia.
Q. Can I feed the patient?
In the early stages it is usually only hospital staff who feed and supervise patients with
swallowing problems. This is because they are relearning how to swallow and are at risk of
aspiration (where food enters the windpipe(choke), which is a dangerous situation). As
their ability to swallow improves, relatives and the patients themselves, will be involved
in feeding. The timing of this varies with the individual. Always check first with the
Speech Pathologist to see whether it is safe to feed the person.
Q. Can I bring in food from home?
Patients often enjoy food brought by their relatives. It is all right to do this if you
ask the Speech Pathologist or Doctor which foods are suitable before you offer it to the
patient. Some food may not be suitable for the patient at particular stages of recovery
and, if given to them, will place them at greater risk of aspirating.
A good variety of food is offered in the unit to ensure adequate nutrition.
Last modified: Thursday, 20 April 2006