Living with dysphagia (trouble swallowing) can feel stressful. You may avoid meals, skip your favorite foods, or feel worried about choking. At Gastrodoxs, we believe simple lifestyle changes can make a big difference. In this guide, Dr. Bharat Pothuri, a gastroenterologist in Houston, shares easy-to-follow tips for managing dysphagia. You’ll learn how to eat safely, adjust your diet, and improve your routine to reduce swallowing risks.
"Swallowing problems affect people differently," says Dr. Pothuri. "But small changes can make a big difference in daily life."
The way you eat matters just as much as what you eat. Small changes to your eating habits and environment can make swallowing safer.
“We focus on more than food,” explains Dr. Pothuri. “We look at how you eat, where you eat, and how you feel.”
You can find these at Houston medical stores or order them online at Gastrodoxs.
Eating slowly and carefully makes a big difference. Dr. Pothuri offers this advice:
“Take one small bite or sip at a time. Tilt your head slightly forward when you swallow. This helps protect your airway.”
| Consistency | Description | Examples |
| Thin liquids | Runny, like water | Water, tea, clear broth |
| Nectar-thick | Slightly thick, coats a straw | Buttermilk, nectar, thickened juice |
| Honey-thick | Pours slowly, sticks to a spoon | Yogurt drinks, honey-thick shakes |
| Pudding-thick | Holds shape, needs a spoon | Pudding, pureed veggies, applesauce |
“Daily routines help build confidence,” says Dr. Pothuri. “They give patients more control.”
You can find many of these online or through Houston medical supply shops. Visit Gastrodoxs.com for our recommended tools.
Lifestyle changes help, but some symptoms need medical care. Contact a GI specialist or speech-language pathologist if you notice:
Dysphagia isn’t just physical—it can affect your emotions and social life too.
Dysphagia can change how you eat, but it doesn’t have to take away your quality of life. With small adjustments, you can stay safe and enjoy food again.
Follow lifestyle tips for dysphagia, eat safely, make dietary changes, and take action to manage symptoms at home. Trust Dr. Pothuri and your Houston resources to guide you.
Visit the Recipe Hub at Gastrodoxs.com for meal ideas, safe swallowing tips, and product suggestions.
If you need expert care, reach out to Dr. Bharat Pothuri or a Houston-area speech-language pathologist.
By following these simple tips and changes, you can continue to live well with dysphagia while keeping your digestive health in check.
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Honey-thick or pudding-thick liquids are usually safest. Ask your therapist what’s best for you.
Try 5–6 small meals each day. It’s safer than eating large portions.
Yes! Chin tucks and the Masako maneuver are helpful. Get a plan from a speech therapist.
Check medical stores near the Galleria or shop online at Gastrodoxs.com.
Yes! Look for symptom tracker or meal log apps. Try searching for “dysphagia tracker.”
Not always. Pureed meats and soft fruits may still be okay. Follow your care plan.
Drink thickened fluids throughout the day. Set reminders if needed.
Get help if you choke often, lose weight fast, or get chest infections after meals.
Yes. A pediatric speech therapist can help your child safely manage it.
The NIH has great resources. Or ask your provider for printed handouts.
