Upplevelser av nedsatt sväljningsförmåga hos personer med dysfagi till följd av stroke
Stroke is one of the most common diseases in Sweden and the third most common cause of death (National guidelines concerning stroke, 2000). Dysphagia is a common problem for stroke patients with almost 50 percent of patients suffering from severe swallowing dysfunction (Axelsson, Asplund, Norberg & Eriksson, 1989). The purpose of this study was to investigate how stroke patients with dysphagia experience their swallowing disorders. The method used was a qualitative literature study. An analysis of content was carried out using ideas and inspiration from Graneheim and Lundman (2003). The results are presented in three categories: lost swallowing function, changed sense of community and lost hope for recovery. The results showed that stroke patients with swallowing dysfunction were influenced in different ways: physically, psychologically and socially. The nursing staff have an important role trying to understand patients' experiences in order to offer them the best care.