Diet and breathlessness

If your appetite is poor|, you can add high-protein powders to your normal food or you can replace meals with nutritious, high-calorie drinks. These are available from most chemists and can be prescribed by your GP. You can also ask to be referred to a dietitian at your hospital. If you are at home, your GP can arrange this for you.

Here are some other tips:

• Smaller meals on a smaller plate are easier to manage.
• Eat slowly and take smaller mouthfuls.
• Try to avoid chewy foods.
• Try adding sauces or gravies to make food easier to eat.
• Drink plenty of fluids as this can help keep your mouth moist and stop phlegm getting sticky, making coughing it up easier. Drink at least 1½ litres (3 pints) of fluid a day if you can.
• Ready meals that can be stored in the freezer can help on days when preparing food feels too difficult.
• A small alcoholic drink like sherry or brandy before a meal can help to improve your appetite.

Dry mouth

Being short of breath can cause you to breathe more through your mouth and less through your nose. This can cause your mouth and tongue to become dry|, leaving a bad taste. If your tongue is coated, try cleaning it gently with a soft toothbrush or cotton bud. Mouthwashes can also help.

Fizzy drinks can be a refreshing way to keep your mouth moist. Or you could try sucking flavoured ice cubes and ice lollies. Fresh pineapple chunks or melon can also help. Keep your lips moist by using lip balm or Vaseline®. Artificial saliva is available as gels, sprays, pastilles or lozenges and your doctor can prescribe these for you.