Because of swallowing Due to swallowing problems, among other things, the risk of dryness or dehydration is greater for people with ALS.
Dehydration causes secretions in the throat to thicken, which can make it even more difficult to swallow and to cough out these secretions, especially if you have a weak cough.
A good way to measure dehydration is to look at the color of the urine. Dark yellow concentrated urine indicates dehydration. Light yellow urine, on the other hand, means you are getting enough fluids.
Because many pALS have swallowing problems, they – more like other persons – will tend to drink less than required. Persons with a PEG need to pay extra attention, because they think they are getting enough liquid through their liquid nutrition, but this is not always true. Some patients even report that they purposefully reduce their liquid intake while traveling to avoid sanitary needs. Definitely don’t do this!
Here are some tips to avoid dryness:
- If you have trouble swallowing, try a thickening agent. It is a powder that is added to water and ensures that your drink quickly reaches the right thickness. This makes it easier to bring the liquid to your throat and swallow. Ask your dietician or pharmacist for advice.
- pALS with a PEG should definitely remember to also consume plain water as well. The liquid nutrition does not contain enough fluid for an entire day. When your husband/wife, caregiver, or friend has a drink, do it too, through your tube. It’s a good way to realize how much fluid you need, since you share the same environment. Be careful with alcohol, it promotes dehydration. If you do consume alcohol, it is certainly very important to drink extra water alongside it.
- In addition to extra fluid, it is also important to consume enough fiber to prevent constipation. Taking a fiber supplement with your diet can help with this. Discuss this first with your dietician when using tube feeding.
- Don’t worry about needing to go to the toilet more often while traveling. The trips are worthwhile and plan extra time in advance to go to the bathroom a bit more.
So keep drinking, especially more on hot days!