How To Solve Swallow Issues In Myasthenia Gravis

To reduce residue in your throat:

• Moisten solid foods with gravy, sauce, broth, butter, mayonnaise, sour cream or yogurt.
• Choose chicken or fish instead of tougher meats.
• Avoid dry crumbly food such as crackers, rice, cookies, nuts, chips or popcorn.
• Avoid bread products such as sandwiches, bagels and muffins.
• Focus on the swallow. Hold your head in a different position to try a different swallow pathway.

To reduce fatigue:

• Eat several small meals during the day.
• Chop or mince solid foods (like meat).
• Eat your largest meal earlier in the day when you have more energy.
• Take anticholinesterase medication (for example, Mestinon) shortly before mealtimes.

To reduce the risk of food accidentally going into your lungs (called “aspiration”):

• Thicken all fluids to the consistency recommended by your doctor or speech pathologist.
• Remember that ice cream and popsicles melt into a thin fluid in your mouth, and that once you chew fruits, the juice released is also a thin liquid.
• Be careful swallowing mixed-consistency foods, for example, cereal with milk, soups (like chicken noodle or vegetable), and fruit salad mixed in juices.

To reduce nasal regurgitation:

• Limit each swallow to half a teaspoon.
• Sit upright and don’t tilt your head forward when swallowing.

Easier Chewing 

Egg salad, canned salmon and fruit smoothies can deliver nutrients in a manageable consistency. Check your library or book store for “soft diet” recipe books.