Fluid and Calory Intake in Patients with Dysphagia

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to assess whether the patients with dysphagia, who must take fluid thickener and dysphagia diet, have adequate fluid and calory intake. METHOD: Fifteen patients with dysphagia were participated in this study. In all of them, dysphagia was documented by videofluoroscopy and viscosity modification was recommended. The amount of fluid and calory intake was measured for 3 consecutive days during taking thickened fluid and dysphagia diet. serum sodium, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (Cr) level were measured. RESULTS: Fourteen of 15 patients with dysphagia took adequate fluid and calory. In thirteen of 14 patients, BUN/Cr ratio and serum sodium were within normal limit. In one of 14 patients, BUN/Cr ratio was elevated due to excessive protein intake. One of 15 patients with dysphagia took the fluid and calory under the standard. Her BUN/Cr ratio was 27.2. But this patient took more fluid and nutrition day after day. At 3rd day after measurement, she took adequate fluid and calory. CONCLUSION: Sufficient fluid and calory could be supplied with fluid thickener and dysphagia diet. But physician should observe carefully whether dysphagic patient consume adequate amount of fluid and calory.