What is Effortful Swallow?
Effortful swallow is a swallowing technique used to help patients, particularly those with
dysphagia, to clear food or liquid from the throat more effectively. This technique involves consciously increasing the strength and effort during the act of swallowing, which can help to push food down through the pharynx and into the esophagus.
Take a small bite of food or a sip of liquid.
Close your lips and teeth firmly.
Swallow hard with a lot of effort, as if you are trying to swallow a large piece of food.
Feel the muscles in your throat working harder than usual.
It is often recommended to practice this technique under the guidance of a
speech-language pathologist who can tailor the method to the patient's specific needs.
Increased fatigue of the swallowing muscles
Potential discomfort or pain during swallowing
Not being effective for very advanced stages of cancer
Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new swallowing technique.
Each technique has its own set of indications and benefits, and the choice of technique often depends on the specific swallowing issues a patient is experiencing.
Can Effortful Swallow Improve Long-term Outcomes?
When practiced regularly and correctly, effortful swallow can help improve the strength and coordination of the swallowing muscles, potentially leading to better long-term outcomes for cancer patients. It can aid in maintaining weight, preventing malnutrition, and reducing the risk of aspiration pneumonia.
Conclusion
Effortful swallow is a valuable technique for cancer patients facing swallowing difficulties. By understanding its benefits, learning how to perform it correctly, and knowing its limitations, patients and caregivers can better manage dysphagia and improve overall quality of life. Always seek professional advice to ensure the most appropriate and effective treatment strategy.
