Parkinson's Patients Experience Coughing When Drinking Water: What To Do

Parkinson's disease can lead to a variety of complications as it progresses, and one common issue in the later stages is difficulty swallowing. This can result in coughing or choking when trying to drink water. For patients experiencing mild symptoms, using a straw can help control the flow of liquid and reduce the risk of coughing. Drinking in small, measured amounts throughout the day is also recommended to avoid overwhelming the throat muscles.

Adapting Diet for Swallowing Difficulties

Modifying the consistency of food and drink is often a practical solution. Offering semi-liquid meals such as thick porridge, noodles, or dumplings can make swallowing easier and safer. These foods are generally smoother and require less effort to ingest, which can help prevent choking episodes.

Medication and Nutritional Adjustments

If there are no restrictions on how medications should be taken, they can be crushed and mixed into soft or semi-liquid foods to make them easier to swallow. Always consult a healthcare provider before altering medication form to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Managing Severe Cases of Dysphagia

In cases where coughing while drinking becomes severe, medical intervention may be necessary. One common solution is the use of a nasogastric tube to deliver liquid nutrition directly into the stomach. This method ensures that patients receive adequate hydration and nutrition without the risk of aspiration or choking.