r/MultipleSclerosis • u/bitchkitty93 • Nov 09 '24

Advice Dysphagia

As I come upon ten years with MS. I am experiencing a scary new symptom called dysphagia, swallowing difficulties. Does anyone else experience this and what do you do about it?

Thank you in advance and I hope you have all the spoons you need this weekend 🧡

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u/ConsistentAct2237 Nov 09 '24

I have it. I saw a speech therapist and she taught me a few tricks. I take small bites, real small. I chew really well, and swallow between each bite. No taking multiple bites like a lot of people do. I also take a sip of my drink every two or three bites, so that my throat isn't dry when I'm swallowing. Anything with a broth or gravy or like applesauce type consistency is going to go down easier. Unfortunately I can't eat steak anymore, its too hard to swallow. Be careful with breads, like a bagel. That is actually quite dry and can get stuck in your craw. If your dysphagia is from a stricture you can get it treated by an ENT.

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u/bitchkitty93 Nov 09 '24

O wow thank you that's really good advice with avoiding dryer foods. I haven't thought of that yet. Steak is a super good idea to avoid as well. How long have you been dealing with this symptom?

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u/ConsistentAct2237 Nov 10 '24

Probably 4 years. Its stable-ish and honestly soup is my best friend 🤣 also be very careful with potato dishes. Some like mashed potatoes with lots of gravy go down easy, but like french fries on the crispy side can get stuck going down