Which dietary change may help a patient with difficulty swallowing?

Providing thickened liquids is an essential dietary change for a patient experiencing difficulty swallowing, a condition known as dysphagia. Thickened liquids can help improve swallowing safety by slowing the flow of fluids, making them easier to control and reducing the risk of aspiration—where food or liquid enters the airway instead of the esophagus.

Thickened liquids conform more closely to the structures of the mouth and throat, allowing the patient to manage their swallowing more effectively. They create less risk of choking and can provide a greater sense of safety when consuming fluids. This dietary modification is often prescribed in clinical settings to facilitate easier and safer swallowing for patients with varying degrees of dysphagia.

On the other hand, high-fiber foods might pose a challenge to those with swallowing difficulties, as they can be dry and require more chewing. Solid foods alone do not provide a solution for those who struggle with swallowing, as they may be even more difficult to manage. Increasing spicy food intake can also irritate the throat and potentially exacerbate swallowing issues, making it an inappropriate choice.