Jaw tremors after eating are a recognized challenge with Parkinson's, and it makes sense that this would make mealtimes increasingly difficult. The muscles involved in chewing and swallowing are affected by the same dopamine changes that cause tremors elsewhere in the body.
The good news is there are things that can help Show Full Answer
Jaw tremors after eating are a recognized challenge with Parkinson's, and it makes sense that this would make mealtimes increasingly difficult. The muscles involved in chewing and swallowing are affected by the same dopamine changes that cause tremors elsewhere in the body.
The good news is there are things that can help. Here are some practical tips to make eating easier:
- Take small bites and chew slowly
- Sit up as straight as possible while eating
- Eat when your medication is working at its best
- Reduce distractions like TV or conversations during meals
- Try softer foods or homemade soups that require less chewing effort
- Consider weighted utensils, which a MyParkinsonsTeam member found helpful for tremor-related eating difficulties It's really worth bringing this up with your neurologist. They can refer you to a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) who specializes in exactly these kinds of eating and swallowing challenges.
One treatment called Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT) has helped many people strengthen the muscles involved in eating and swallowing. As one MyParkinsonsTeam member shared, working consistently with an LSVT-trained therapist brought them 80–90% improvement. It takes daily commitment, but it can make a real difference.
August 29
Thank you Charlene. Seems every day is something 😕
August 30
Sorry eating has become so stressful for you Kathleen. I know for awhile I had no desire to eat but it wasn’t that I was having trouble eating, just no appetite. Hope some of the hints can help you
August 29
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