Saliva can be a problem for me, in so much that my cough is weak. Not strong enough to cough it up and that annoys me. I have been assessed by a speech pathologist and know I am not at risk of choking. With food basically I keep to a soft diet and know how to swallow safely by tucking my chin into my chest. With the stroke I did cough a great deal. Even sipping water could set off coughing.i wish your father well in his recovery journey. I would appreciate a answer to ,how to get rid of saliva" I make too much !! Jenny
Hi Jenny,
We have spoken with Lucy via StrokeLine to assist her with her query.
Saliva management problems and dysphagia (impaired swallowing) is quite common after a stroke. A stroke can reduce the strength or frequency of your swallow so that saliva builds up in your mouth and throat. Taking small sips of water regularly or performing a clearing/dry swallow can help to reduce your saliva build up. Other people find that chewing gum or sucking on a sugar free mint helps to remind them to swallow. There are also some medications that reduce the amount of saliva produced, however this is something that you would need to discuss with your GP as these medications have side-effects.
The chin tuck, that you mentioned, can assist some people in protecting their airway while eating and drinking, however it should only be used if recommended by a Speech Pathologist. Other safe swallow precautions include: slowing your rate of eating and drinking, taking small mouthfuls, reducing meal-time distractions, taking regular sips of fluid throughout your meal, and remaining upright for 30 minutes or more after you have finished eating.
Please do not hesitate to phone us on StrokeLine (1800 787 653) if you would like to discuss this further.
Alana
Speech Pathologist
StrokeLine officer - National Stroke Foundation