hi, my baby is 22 months old but he is unable to chew and swallow food. What should I do?

2 Answers

Author of questionMom of a 2 yr 11 m old boy1 Year ago

A. He can swallow food like cereal or any mashed food some time but he is unable to eat food like Pan cake, small pieces of fruits.

POOJA KOTHARIMom of a 8 yr 6 m old boy1 Year ago

A. It's concerning when a child has difficulty eating and swallowing. Here are some steps you can take: 1. **Consult a Pediatrician**: This is the most important step. A pediatrician can evaluate your baby to rule out any medical issues such as oral-motor dysfunction, swallowing disorders, or anatomical problems. 2. **Speech and Language Therapist**: If the pediatrician recommends it, a speech and language therapist can assess and provide therapy for any swallowing difficulties or oral-motor issues. 3. **Occupational Therapist**: They can help with sensory processing issues that might affect your child's ability to eat and swallow. 4. **Dietary Changes**: Experiment with different textures and consistencies of food. Some children may prefer softer, pureed foods, while others might respond better to small, manageable pieces. 5. **Feeding Techniques**: Use smaller utensils and encourage slow, calm eating. Ensure your child is seated upright during meals to help with swallowing. 6. **Hydration**: Ensure your baby is staying hydrated, as dehydration can make swallowing more difficult. 7. **Observation and Patience**: Pay attention to any patterns or specific difficulties your child has during meals, and be patient as they learn to manage different textures and types of food. 8. **Avoid Force-Feeding**: This can create negative associations with eating and increase stress and anxiety around mealtime. It's crucial to get a professional assessment to understand the underlying cause and receive tailored advice and interventions.

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