How soon after a stroke should a patient take a swallow test Posted: 08-02-07 12:49pm
I have a question about strokes. My
Grandmother had one July 3rd and is 81.
Her right side is paralyzed and she
communicates by moaning and shaking her
head yes or no. She gets frustrated when
we don't know what she's trying to say but
does understand when we ask her something.
She has a feeding tube in her stomach but
is now off of oxygen. She has not passed
the swallow test. How often should this
be tested and what determines passing the
test? I was told at the nursing home that
she would be tested again at her 4-6 week
check-up (date from having the stroke).
She IS getting PT and I believe OT.
Is this info correct about the swallow
test and what can the family do to help
with her speech?
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DoctorAnswer
Doctor Answer
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Stroke Answer A3234 Posted: 09-18-07 03:04am
Right side paralysis (haemiplegia), lack
of speech (motor aphasia) and disturbed
swallowing (dysphagia) can be caused by
stroke. In cases like your grandmother's,
a feeding tube is placed to support
nutrition and prevent further possible
complications such as gastro-esophageal
reflux and aspiration pneumonia. There is
nothing you can do to help her reestablish
the lost functions of her body. Everything
depends upon the stroke severity and brain
reserves. The only thing you can do is to
take care of her by: maintaining hygiene,
massaging her body to prevent decubital
wounds, feeding her through the tube as
long as necessary etc. 4-6 weeks is an
appropriate time for performing another
swallowing test.
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