Swallowing and nutritional complications

Abstract

Malnutrition and dysphagia are common after stroke and frequently occur together. Failure to recognise their presence and manage them effectively will result in increased morbidity and mortality. Infection risk may be raised, recovery and rehabilitation will be slowed, and people will be more likely to end up in longterm care. Treatment of malnutrition and swallowing difficulties requires early recognition, e.g. Through routine screening procedures, and their management requires input from the multi-disciplinary team. Monitoring of nutrition and swallowing status needs to be regular and consistent and may need to continue beyond hospital discharge into the care home environment and in those living at home. Consequently, issues around the detection and management of malnutrition and dysphagia need to be raised with all care staff and professionals.