Difficulty with feeding issues

[Sugardart]

Frequently my mother is not able to open her mouth wide enough to get food in. She typically has a voracious appetite. It is difficult to know if is she is choosing not to eat or isn't able to open her mouth. On days when she is not able to open her mouth we have been feeding her with a syringe. She is no longer able to suck liquids through a straw so liquids are administered solely with the syringe. Is this typical for some PSP'ers and what are you doing to maintain fluids and nourishment?

[laroux]

My husband had a feeding tube placed in March, because he wasn't able to eat enough or swallow enough to sustain him. He still eats some pureed foods, depends on the consistency and texture. (he can't chew) Kind of funny but it works for him, he likes a bowl of porridge, and he adds milk and some "ensure", and what he can't get with a spoon, he drinks with a straw! Everything has to be a thicker consistency. Don't know if that helps at all, but thickened liquids are still fluids.

Joan

[Hidden in reply to laroux]

Hi laroux Was this a PEG feeding tube? My mother has just been admitted to hospital with dehydration. It is very difficult to get her to take enough fluid and nutrition orally. She has little quality of life - no means of communication, only able to move forearms and hands, difficulty swallowing, opening mouth, in pain, contractures of both legs. I am not sure whether PEG feeding is the answer for her as I have heard that the operation is traumatic. The hospital are suggesting feeding tubes . I feel that this could just prolong her suffering but continuing with solely oral feeding will probably soon lead to dehyration again. Does anyone have experience of feeding using tubes other than PEG tubes for long term fluid and nutrition?

[jillannf6]

HI

I HA VE DECIDED AGAINST A PE G TUBE WHEN THE ITMECOMES AND I CNA NO LONGER EA TANYTHIGN NORMALLY

BUT I TSI NTO AN EASY DECISION TO MAKE

LOL JILL