Lifestyle Adjustments to Manage Dysphagia

Written by Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG | Updated On 05-22-2025

Behavioral Modifications to control Dysphagia

Tips from Gastrodoxs

Having dysphagia (difficulty in swallowing) may be stressful. You can go without eating, not eat your favourite foods or you can worry about choking. Here at Gastrodoxs, we are of the opinion that changes in lifestyle can be big. Dr. Bharat Pothuri, a gastroenterologist in Houston, is the author of this guide, which gives tips that are simple to follow to manage dysphagia. You will be taught how to eat safely, how to modify your diet and change your routine in order to reduce any risk of swallowing.

Dr. Pothuri says that people react to swallowing issues in different ways. But little things can bring about massive difference in everyday life.

Section 1: What is Dysphagia?

Dysphagia refers to the inability to swallow food or liquid between your mouth and your stomach. It may be caused by:

• Weak throat muscles
• Nerve damage
• Narrowed passages (called strictures)
• Health problems or stroke

Dysphagia is marked by coughing at the time of eating, the sensation that something is caught in the throat, or excessive drooling. When dysphagia is not treated it may result in:

• Dehydration
• Malnutrition
• Lung infections

Learn more from Mayo Clinic

Section 2: The Benefits of Lifestyle Changes

How you eat is as important as what you eat. Swallowing can be safer by making small alterations to your diet and setting.

We do not just deal with food as Dr. Pothuri explains. We look at the manner in which you eat, the place in which you eat, and the manner in which you feel.

Section 3: Day-to-Day Advice on Living with Dysphagia

Simple measures can help to be safe and spend time at the dinner table once again:

• Dine in a relaxing environment: Switch off television and put away your phone.
• Get into good posture: Sit upright keeping feet flat. Slightly lean forward whilst eating.
• Eat small, frequent: Eat 56 small meals rather than 3 large meals.
• Consume sufficient fluids: Take water between bites.
• Chew well: Chew 20-30 times per bite. Swallowing must be smooth.
• Use useful spoons and cups: Use weighted spoons, lidded cups or rubber handles.

These are available at medical stores in Houston, or can be ordered online at Gastrodoxs.

Section 4: Eating with Dysphagia: Instructions

It matters a lot when one chews his or her food. Dr. Pothuri offers this advice:

One little bite or one little sip at a time. When you swallow, your head is tilted slightly. This assists in the defense of your airway.

Additional safety tips:

• When you are swallowing, tuck your chin into your chest.
• Pause between bites.
• Only use alternate solids and liquids with the approval of your speech therapist.
• Eat with your mouth closed.

Section 5: Dietary Interventions That Can Be Helpful

It is possible to change the texture of food to be able to swallow it easier. Here's a quick chart:

Food tips:

• Select soft, smashed or blended foods.
• Moisten dry foods by adding gravy or sauce.
• Add meat-rich foods such as eggs, yogurt, and soft meats.
• Blend puree soups and smoothies to make them easier to swallow.

Section 6: Prevention of Dysphagia at Home

The following are ways that you can keep symptoms at home safely:

• Swallows practice: Chin tuck and Masako.
• Monitor your symptoms: Diary of food and symptoms.
• Get used to a schedule: Sit down and have 30 minutes after meals.
• Engage the caregivers: Educate family members on safe ways of feeding.

Dr. Pothuri says that confidence is developed through routine daily activities. They provide patients with increased control.

Section 7: Set Up a Safe Kitchen

You do not need a complete remodel to do that simply a few clever tools will assist:

• A food mill or counter top blender
• Convenient thickening powders
• Well marked food containers
• Non-slip mats for extra grip
• Adaptive cups and utensils

Most of these are available online, or in Houston medical supply stores. See tools suggested at Visit Gastrodoxs.com.

Section 8: When to See a Specialist

Changes in lifestyle are beneficial, and certain symptoms require treatment. Call a specialist in GI or speech-language pathologist in the case of the following:

• Frequent choking
• Weight loss without trying
• Recurring chest infections
• Signs of dehydration

Section 9: Never Forget Emotional Support

Dysphagia is not only physical it may also have an impact on your feelings and social life.

• Change groups on the local and online level.
• Give attention to eating.
• Discuss with a friend, counselor or therapist the way you are feeling.
• You're not alone. Telling your story reminds you that you are not alone and increases the level of support.

Conclusion

Dysphagia may alter your eating behavior, but it does not necessarily deprive you of your quality of life. With minor modifications, you will be able to be safe and have something to eat again.

Adhere to dysphagia lifestyle recommendations, safely eat, change the diet, and take measures to deal with the symptoms at home. Relax and entrust yourself to Trust Dr. Pothuri and your resources of Houston.

Want More Help?

Go to the Recipe hub at Gastrodoxs to get meal ideas, safe swallowing tips, and even products.

In case you require the expert attention, contact Dr. Bharat Pothuri or a speech-language pathologist in the Houston area.

External Resources

• Mayo Clinic Dysphagia

These few tips and modifications will enable you to maintain a healthy digestive system and live well with dysphagia.

About the Author

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.