- Avoid distractions e.g. switch off the TV and don’t try to talk when eating.
- Ensure you are sitting as upright as possible when eating to reduce the chance of foods going the wrong way.
- Put smaller amounts of food on your fork or spoon and take smaller mouthfuls when you drink.
- Take your time when eating and ensure each mouthful has cleared fully before taking your next bite.
- You may find taking a drink between mouthfuls helps food to clear.
- Moistening dry foods with a sauce, gravy, cream or custard may help
- If you are coughing with thin fluids, try naturally thicker drinks e.g. milkshakes or smoothies
- Keeping your chin level or slightly tucked in towards your chest may be helpful.
- It may help to take smaller meals more frequently or have your bigger meal when you are less fatigued
- The MS Society booklet on swallowing difficulties is useful. See mssociety.org.uk
- For information on modifying food consistencies and difficult foods to avoid see www.iddsi.org.
- If you would like further advice, please contact Speech and Language Therapy at the Lanfine Service on 0131 537 9083
Lanfine Service
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