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Conditions and Diseases > Stroke Forum > How soon after a stroke should a patient take a swallow test
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Q: How soon after a stroke should a patient take a swallow test
asked by: DoctorQuestion on August 2nd, 2007
I have a question about strokes. My Grandmother had one July 3rd and is 81. Her right side is paralyzed and she communicates by moaning and shaking her head yes or no. She gets frustrated when we don't know what she's trying to say but does understand when we ask her something. She has a feeding tube in her stomach but is now off of oxygen. She has not passed the swallow test. How often should this be tested and what determines passing the test? I was told at the nursing home that she would be tested again at her 4-6 week check-up (date from having the stroke). She IS getting PT and I believe OT.
Is this info correct about the swallow test and what can the family do to help with her speech?


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Dr. Nikola Gjuzelov , MD
replied on September 18th, 2007
Stroke Answer A3234
Right side paralysis (haemiplegia), lack of speech (motor aphasia) and disturbed swallowing (dysphagia) can be caused by stroke. In cases like your grandmother's, a feeding tube is placed to support nutrition and prevent further possible complications such as gastro-esophageal reflux and aspiration pneumonia. There is nothing you can do to help her reestablish the lost functions of her body. Everything depends upon the stroke severity and brain reserves. The only thing you can do is to take care of her by: maintaining hygiene, massaging her body to prevent decubital wounds, feeding her through the tube as long as necessary etc. 4-6 weeks is an appropriate time for performing another swallowing test.




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