Swallowing problem

[martin1945]

As my emphysema progresses I have found I need to me more carefully in swallowing as I have a tendency, especially with liquid, to have it try and go down to my lungs rather than to my stomach....the breathing gate does not shut quickly enough....is the best way to explain it. Anyone else suffered this problem?

[ingy]

Yes , I find it is so much easier to choke. I love nuts, but dare not eat them now. Rice is another thing, not so much liquid though. I do understand what you mean.

ingrid.

[paijejo]

yes I also feel the same, it`s a bit severe but I kept thinking I was going to have a stroke or something, as though I am losing control of the ability to swallow properly and it to go in the right place as I feel I am choking a lot lately with things I never choked with before.I just, like yourself and ingy would love to know why and what is the explanaition,

[mogli712]

Is it Dysphagia nhs.uk/conditions/Dysphagia... seek advice from a doctor with these symptoms. Experience of a case it should not be underestimated if food inhaled into lungs there can be serious consequences.

[martin1945 in reply to mogli712]

Hi Mogli - appreciate the advice but at present it is not that of a problem. I have always been a quick eater, so I guess I will have to slow down and chew my food more. The website to mention is good at explanation.

[Hidden in reply to mogli712]

thanks so much - see below too

[Hidden]

this explains what happened to me recently. I was recovering very well from a chest infection then cornflakes landed in my lungs (after nearly choking me) ..... immediately and worsening over next couple of days was breathing and temperature and generall feeling less well....more antibiotics and feel it's finally shifting ! relief - it was scary - both the choking and its aftermath.

Thanks for the info. I am alerted and know what to do now. Have also told family with that link showing how to do the manoeuvre etc- just in case someone is around to help clear food blockage in throat if it happens again - hopefully it won't .. eating much more carefully now....smaller bites and soft food often and not my fav bread as it is too dry... also make sure I have water nearby.

My Mum saved my son's life as a baby when I picked him from the cot going blue and not breathing ...a spoonful of brandy made his body reject the blockage somehow - and also made him rather drunk now that was a mighty relief. and I could never thank my Mum enough for that 'miracle'

[valj]

I worked as a speech & language therapist until recently had to take ill health retirement. Swallowing disorders is one area which can be helped by the right input. Sometimes all it takes is an understanding of how you could slow down the transit time of drinks in particular by for example adding thickeners or opting for slightly naturally thicker drinks such as yoghurt drinks or "nectar". Being aware of mixed consistencies eg. when you bite into a bit of apple the flesh is ok, but sometimes the resulting juice can escape very quickly and take you by surprise. It might be worth asking for a referral. Best wishes. Oh and by the way if it is needed for your safety, yes you can add thickeners to a beer or a cup of tea!!

[lorraine66]

i often choke & most the time i'm not eating or drinking at the time :/

i can't eat apples as they really make me choke & quite often so does chocalate