The fear of swallowing pills is a fairly common one. It is more common in children than adults and is one that can compromise treatment if not addressed in time. Apart from this fear other problems that are associated with pills include bad taste and forgetfulness. These problems are more pronounced in people with chronic illnesses who require constant medication. There are a number of tips on how to swallow pills that have been found to be useful.
The fear of gagging makes it difficult for a pill to go past the throat in some people. The gag reflex is a protective function of the body that stimulates a cough when an object is stuck in the throat. In some cases, however, this reflex may work to our disadvantage by tightening the throat and making it difficult for substances to pass through. Proper relaxation by various techniques helps to keep the throat patent.
For swallowing to take place, proper positioning is very important. The optimal position involves placing the chin close to the chest as opposed to looking upwards. The idea is to ensure that the esophagus is open and the trachea is closed. This position also suppresses the gag reflex. While in this position, take a deep breath and swallow the pill with a glass of water.
The use of sweeteners is quite widespread because of its simplicity. Peanut butter and honey are some of the most commonly used sweeteners. Put the tablet on a spoon and add a drop or two of honey on it. Swallow both of them with a glass of water. The sweetener that is chosen should not affect the effectiveness of the drug. Peanut butter and honey do not affect this potency.
A number of pills are available with an enteric coating that makes them easy to swallow. The coating also helps to reduce irritation that may occur as they enter the gut. Ensure that you inquire about the availability of this type if you have trouble swallowing the ordinary types. The sweet taste of the pills stimulates salivation which in turn stimulates the swallowing reflex. There may or may not be a need for water.
Candy may help in some cases. Try swallowing candy equivalent to the size of the pill for practice. After several attempts, it becomes possible to swallow almost anything. This happens due to the relaxation of the esophagus cause by successive swallowing processes. The use of other liquids other than water has also been shown to be effective.
Breaking down pills is yet another option that one may consider. A number of them can even be ground into powder. Breaking down drugs in this manner may, however, interfere with the effectiveness. It is important that you go through the instructions on the drug sheet before you arrive at such a decision. Better still, consult with your pharmacist.
For scheduled medications, you need to have a reminder so that you do not forget. The use of an alarm reminder is the easiest and most effective. You can also schedule your mediation to be taken just before or after meals. Alternatively you can have a friend remind you every time you need to have the medication.
The fear of gagging makes it difficult for a pill to go past the throat in some people. The gag reflex is a protective function of the body that stimulates a cough when an object is stuck in the throat. In some cases, however, this reflex may work to our disadvantage by tightening the throat and making it difficult for substances to pass through. Proper relaxation by various techniques helps to keep the throat patent.
For swallowing to take place, proper positioning is very important. The optimal position involves placing the chin close to the chest as opposed to looking upwards. The idea is to ensure that the esophagus is open and the trachea is closed. This position also suppresses the gag reflex. While in this position, take a deep breath and swallow the pill with a glass of water.
The use of sweeteners is quite widespread because of its simplicity. Peanut butter and honey are some of the most commonly used sweeteners. Put the tablet on a spoon and add a drop or two of honey on it. Swallow both of them with a glass of water. The sweetener that is chosen should not affect the effectiveness of the drug. Peanut butter and honey do not affect this potency.
A number of pills are available with an enteric coating that makes them easy to swallow. The coating also helps to reduce irritation that may occur as they enter the gut. Ensure that you inquire about the availability of this type if you have trouble swallowing the ordinary types. The sweet taste of the pills stimulates salivation which in turn stimulates the swallowing reflex. There may or may not be a need for water.
Candy may help in some cases. Try swallowing candy equivalent to the size of the pill for practice. After several attempts, it becomes possible to swallow almost anything. This happens due to the relaxation of the esophagus cause by successive swallowing processes. The use of other liquids other than water has also been shown to be effective.
Breaking down pills is yet another option that one may consider. A number of them can even be ground into powder. Breaking down drugs in this manner may, however, interfere with the effectiveness. It is important that you go through the instructions on the drug sheet before you arrive at such a decision. Better still, consult with your pharmacist.
For scheduled medications, you need to have a reminder so that you do not forget. The use of an alarm reminder is the easiest and most effective. You can also schedule your mediation to be taken just before or after meals. Alternatively you can have a friend remind you every time you need to have the medication.
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