Eating and Swallowing Safely

Care instructions

When your swallowing muscles are weak, food and fluids may not move properly from your mouth down to your stomach.

Food, fluid, and saliva can get into your airway or lungs and cause coughing, choking, or a chest infection. People with swallowing problems need to be careful when eating.

Your swallowing team will talk to you about what foods and fluids are safe for you.

How can you care for yourself at home?

Eating

• Eat when rested and at your best.
• Eat small meals and snacks if you get tired eating large meals.
• While eating and drinking, avoid distractions such as watching TV and talking.
• Give yourself enough time for meals so that you are not rushed.
• Take small bites and sips. Finish each bite or sip before taking the next.

Position

• Sit upright when eating and drinking, even when you are in bed, unless your swallowing team has made other positioning suggestions.
• Stay as upright as possible for at least 30 minutes after meals and snacks. Do not lie flat.

After eating

• Brush your teeth, tongue, gums, and cheeks at least twice a day, even if you wear dentures.

If you are on modified food textures or thick fluids:

• Eat and drink the foods and fluids suggested by your swallowing team.
• Follow the instructions for thickening fluids provided to you.

Take medicines safely

• Take your pills one at a time with the food or fluid suggested by your swallowing team.
• Your swallowing team may also suggest you crush your pills. Check with your pharmacist before crushing or breaking any medications.

Call your doctor or your healthcare provider if:

• You notice a change in your swallow, such as trouble swallowing or pain when swallowing.
• You have:
  • a congested chest
  • a cough with lots of mucous and phlegm
  • a fever
  • trouble breathing
• You think you need a swallowing assessment.

Learn more Tips to eat and swallow safely

To see this information online and learn more, visit https://MyHealth.Alberta.ca/health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=custom.ab_eating_swallowing_inst.

For 24/7 nurse advice and general health information call Health Link at 811.

Current as of: May 08, 2025
Author: Nutrition Services, Alberta Health Services
This material is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified health professional. This material is intended for general information only and is provided on an "as is", "where is" basis. Although reasonable efforts were made to confirm the accuracy of the information, Alberta Health Services does not make any representation or warranty, express, implied or statutory, as to the accuracy, reliability, completeness, applicability or fitness for a particular purpose of such information. Alberta Health Services expressly disclaims all liability for the use of these materials, and for any claims, actions, demands or suits arising from such use.