Should fluids thickeners still be used for patients with swallowing problerms?

The use of thickened fluids in patients with dysphagia is widespread and considered an effective strategy for improving swallowing. However, the evidences that support the effectiveness of thickened fluids in reducing aspiration pneumonia and other complications are scarce. Instead, a body of evidences suggests that it is associated to adverse events, including dehydration, malnutrition and reduced health-related quality of life. A recent study on the implementation of this intervention on patients with dementia and dysphagia admitted to hospital shows no differences in mortality between patients exposed or not to a diet with thick liquid, and a higher risk of respiratory complications. Pending studies to clarify which behaviour is best, it is important to try to understand, together with the patient and the clinical specialists, the best strategy tailored on the patient.