Effect of early dysphagia therapy on improving swallowing difficulties in stroke patients with swallowing disorder

Hassan Nabih Mohamed, Madiha; Abouda Abdelhamed Soultan, Asmaa

doi:10.21608/ejhc.2022.413849

Effect of early dysphagia therapy on improving swallowing difficulties in stroke patients with swallowing disorder

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Assistant Professor of Medical-Surgical Nursing Faculty of Nursing, Mansoura University, Egypt

² Assistant Professor, Medical Surgical Nursing department, Faculty of Nursing, Damietta University, Egypt.

10.21608/ejhc.2022.413849

Abstract

Background: Dysphagia is a prevalent and important symptom that occurs after a stroke. The aim of physical therapy for dysphagia is to avert aspiration, dehydration, and malnutrition by restoring functional and physiological swallowing. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of evaluate the Effectiveness of Early Dysphagia Therapy on Improving Swallowing Difficulty in Stroke Patients. Methods: A quasi-experimental research design was consumed. Setting: This proposal was achieved in neurology department and related outpatient clinic affiliated to Mansoura University Hospital, Egypt. Tools: Four tools were utilized 1) patient's assessment sheet; 2) National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS); 3) Dysphagia Outcome Severity Scale (DOSS); 4) Dysphagia Handicap Index (DHI). Results: The study group showed a highly significant enhancement in swallowing abilities (0.0001) and quality of life compared to the control group. Moreover, there is a notable relationship between enhancement in swallowing abilities and improved quality of life. Conclusions: The current study highlighted sufficient evidence that dysphagia therapy was effective in enhancing swallowing abilities and quality of among stroke patients. It is recommended to use dysphagia therapy as a routine part of care for stroke patients with swallowing difficulties.

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