Outcomes of Dysphagia Following Stroke: Factors Influencing Oral Intake at 6 Months After Onset

Sachiyo Hota, Yoko Inamoto, Kazuyo Oguchi, Tomoko Kondo, Eri Otaka, Masahiko Mukaino, Marlis Gonzalez-Fernandez, Eiichi Saitoh

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to describe recovery of dysphagia after stroke. We determined the proportion of stroke survivors with dysphagia on admission, discharge, and 6 months after stroke. Additionally, the factors affecting oral feeding 6 months after stroke were explored. Methods: A total of 427 acute stroke patients were recruited prospectively. Presence of dysphagia was evaluated on admission, weekly until recovery was achieved, and at discharge. We compared stroke survivors with dysphagia who had complete recovery, who had dysphagia but achieved oral feeding, and who required tube feeding. Patient-reported eating ability was evaluated at 6 months. Patients who achieved oral feeding by 6 months were compared to those who had persistent tube feeding need. Results: Fifty-five percent of stroke survivors had dysphagia on initial evaluation (3.1 ± 1.4 days after admission) and 37% at discharge (21.1 ± 12.4 days). At 6 months, 5% of patients required tube feeding. Among those who had dysphagia at initial evaluation, 32% had resolution of dysphagia within two weeks, 44% had dysphagia but started oral feeding before discharge, and 23% required alternative means of alimentation (nasogastric tube feeding, percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy, parental nutrition) throughout hospitalization. At 6 months, 90% of stroke survivors who achieved oral feeding by discharge continued with oral feeding. Patients who achieved oral feeding after discharge had less cognitive impairments on admission and a higher speech therapist intervention rate after discharge. Conclusions: More than half of stroke survivors had dysphagia but the vast majority were able to return to oral feeding by 6 months. Cognitive function and dysphagia rehabilitation interventions were associated with return to oral feeding after hospital discharge.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number105971
JournalJournal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases
Volume30
Issue number9
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 2021

Keywords

  • Dysphagia
  • Oral intake
  • Outcome
  • Stroke
  • Swallowing disorders

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery
  • Rehabilitation
  • Clinical Neurology
  • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

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