Top tips for safe swallowing
Last edited: 16/07/2024
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Before you start:
- Keep your mouth as clean and healthy as possible.
- If you wear dentures make sure they are in place and secure.
- Always sit as upright as possible, not tilted back or leaning to one side.
- Avoid eating and drinking if you are very tired, drowsy or feeling very weak.
- Never swallow with your head tilted back.
- Reduce distractions: Turn off the TV, radio and mobile phone. Relaxing music may help.
- Make sure that whatever you are eating or drinking is the correct consistency as advised by the speech and language therapist.
- Avoid straws or spouted beakers unless specifically advised.
During the meal:
- Don’t rush, take your time when you are eating and drinking.
- Ensure that your mouthfuls are not too big.
- Chew food carefully before swallowing.
- Chew and swallow one mouthful at a time.
- Make sure that the swallow has finished before reloading the fork or spoon.
- Take small sips of fluid, don’t guzzle or gulp.
- Avoid talking or laughing when eating or drinking.
- Alternate a mouthful of food with a sip of fluid to help clear any leftover food from your mouth and throat.
- Be observant and watch for warning signs that may indicate your swallowing has changed.
- Please contact your speech and language therapist if anything has changed.
When you are finished:
- Listen to your voice – if it sounds wet or gurgly, cough or throat clear and then swallow again to try and clear it.
- After eating, check and clear any food that may remain in your cheeks or mouth.
- Stay upright for at least 20 minutes.
Contact us
0300 123 0785 for east Kent
0300 123 1948 for west Kent
kentchft.aslt@nhs.net
Please complete our Adult Community Speech and Language Therapy Service referral form or you can be referred by a GP or healthcare professional.
This information should only be followed on the advice of a healthcare professional.
Do you have feedback about our health services?
0800 030 4550
Text 07899 903499
Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.30pm
kentchft.PALS@nhs.net
kentcht.nhs.uk/PALS
Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)
Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust
Trinity House, 110-120 Upper Pemberton
Ashford
Kent
TN25 4AZ
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