What is Dysphagia?
Dysphagia is the medical term for a swallowing problem. It’s a mixture of Modern Latin and Greek; ‘dys’ means something has gone wrong and ‘phagia’ means ‘to eat’.
It’s a symptom arising from an underlying condition.
What is malnutrition?
Malnutrition or undernutrition is the result of an imbalance of nutrients in the body which causes measurable effects on body form, function and clinical outcomes. This imbalance of nutrients usually occurs due to inadequate food intake for which there may be many reasons.
Dysphagia is a symptom and there are many causes in adults and children.
Aspiration (Pulmonary) = accidental inhalation of food, drink or other material into the airway and lungs.
People with dysphagia have varying degrees of independence. Many can eat and drink for themselves, perhaps with some adaptations or equipment, whilst others require assistance, either fully or in part.
Puréed food does not mean tolerating a mushy, runny, sloppy brown or grey mixture in a bowl. It is now possible to prepare appetising, appealing and nutritious puréed meals at home. In addition to this, you can also purchase Made For You pre-prepared puréed meals.
Made For You offer a wide range of meals suitable for people with dysphagia, beautifully shaped and made with quality ingredients to provide a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Some people with dysphagia require the texture of their food and drink to be adapted.
This is to ensure a safe and comfortable experience when eating and drinking.
The IDDSI Framework provides a shared 'language’ for everyone to use when supporting people with dysphagia.
