Just Why

[Ellie]

Stonehengeman I also love my daily cup of coffee - have you tried adding a bit of thickener to it? (available on presciption too)

I saw on another post that you're finding it hard to swallow tablets - for any not available in liquid form or are crushable, taking them in thick yoghurt or in your blended food, might work for you.

Take care.

Love Ellie.

[GaryM]

I responded on 29 Jan. My ability to swallow has started a downhill journey. I am finding it increasingly difficult to chew food and it is collecting between my cheeks and gums/teeth. My wife has taken to wizzing my food in the Kenwood so that it is moist and sloppy. I can then get it down but still need to brush between my cheeks and teeth after any food. I am now using the button for some liquids (water and tea) but still drinking coffee (with difficulty) as I like to taste the coffee. I don't know how long it will be before I go onto everything through the button.

I started having difficulty chewing and manipulating food in summer 2020. By September it was taking me about an hour to eat a normal meal. I've persevered, gradually modifying the food that I eat, until the last few weeks when my swallow has become very problematic. As Ellie says, if you're not using thickener already then you need to get some from the dietitian. It tastes odd at first but you soon get used to it. It allowed me to swallow tablets for a few more months.