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What Are the Dangers of a Feeding Tube in the Elderly?

Feeding tubes may be given to the elderly when they are unable to eat normally. Many times with age, the muscles in the throat will gradually cease to work. There are several potential complications related to having a feeding tube.

  1. Aspiration Pneumonia

    • One of the biggest concerns with feeding tubes is the possibility of developing aspiration pneumonia. Some people cannot get used to the feeding tube, and they still try to swallow. Individuals who do this may end up with aspiration pneumonia.

    No Improvement

    • Many people believe that the added nutrients received through tube feeding will improve an elderly patient's condition. However, statistics show that a feeding tube does not improve or hurt a person's condition. An elderly patient whose body cannot normally process food actually stays in the same state.

    Dependancy

    • Many people who receive a feeding tube will become dependent on the tube. They get so accustomed to the tube that they never eat normally again.

    Complications

    • If the feeding tube is put in too early, the patient may experience bleeding in the stomach. Feeding tube placement is done surgically, and the procedure carries the same risks as any surgery. These include infection and bleeding at the wound site.

    Is Tube Feeding Worth It?

    • Many people think that tube feeding is actually a last resort for keeping the elderly alive. You must consider all of the risks and benefits before making this choice.

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