Mastering the Art of Swallowing Pills: A Step-by-Step Guide

Swallowing pills can be intimidating for many, especially for those with PANS PANDAS due to OCD, sensory issues, anxiety, or difficulty swallowing. The good news is that with some practice and patience, it’s possible to become comfortable with this skill. Whether you’re learning for the first time or overcoming a fear of pills, here’s a step-by-step guide to help make the process easier.

---

Tips for Taking Medicine

It can be especially challenging to get kids to take their medicine. If swallowing pills is still a struggle, here are some additional strategies to try in the meantime.

• Coat the Tongue: Use a portion of oily food, like peanut butter or chocolate, to coat the tongue. This can make swallowing medicine easier and more pleasant. Afterward, have the child swallow the medicine mixed into food, then take another bite of the peanut butter or chocolate to mask the taste.
• Melted Chocolate: Another method is to melt some chocolate in the microwave, mix the medicine in there, and pour it into a mold or onto parchment paper. Let it firm up and then have the child eat it.

Here are some additional food options that can help with swallowing medicine:

• Juice
• Nut Butter (peanut, almond, cashew)
• Jelly
• Ice Cream
• Spaghetti Sauce
• Pudding
• Scrambled Eggs
• Yogurt
• Whip Cream

---

Pill Swallowing Protocol

Bonnie Kaplan at the University of Calgary in the Behavioural Research Unit / Dept of Paediatrics has worked with hundreds of children and adults to develop a way to learn how to swallow pills. This method, based on head posture, is helping people who have difficulty swallowing their medication. Watch the U Calgary video for specific directions.

Download ASPIRE’s Pill Swallowing Protocol and Head Position Preference Worksheet

Make sure to download the Pill Swallowing Technique Handout and Head Position Preference Sheet to track head positions for two weeks!

---

Mastering the Art of Swallowing Pills: A Step-by-Step Guide

 

Step 1: Start Small with Hard Candy

Before jumping straight into pills, begin by practicing with a small, hard candy. A candy is easier to swallow and offers a way to build confidence before moving on to something larger. Pick something small, round, and smooth to get started.

Step 2: Understanding Your Esophagus

One of the main fears when it comes to swallowing pills is the idea that they might get stuck. However, your esophagus is much wider than any pill, and it’s designed to be flexible and soft, much like the inside of your cheek. Trust your body—your esophagus is built to move things down without issue.

Step 3: Good Posture Makes a Difference

Standing up straight can help open up your throat and make swallowing easier. Maintaining a good posture helps create the right alignment for your body to naturally swallow. If you feel uncomfortable sitting, try standing to see if it makes the process easier.

Step 4: Position the Candy

Place the candy on the back of your tongue, just like you would a pill. This positioning will mimic the feeling of swallowing a pill, preparing your body for the real thing.

Step 5: Sip a Little Water

Once the candy is in place, take a small sip of water—just enough to help guide the candy down. A little water is better than too much, as it allows you to focus on the swallowing action without overwhelming yourself

---

Experiment with Different Head Positions

One of the key strategies to make swallowing easier is to experiment with head positions. Your body responds differently to various angles, and finding the one that works for you is important.

• Straightforward Position: Try swallowing just as you would when drinking. Keep your head straight, and let the candy or pill fall down naturally.
• Turning Your Head: Turning your head to the left or right can open your throat and make the swallowing process easier. Try both sides to see which feels best.
• Lifting Your Head: Lifting your head up may help the candy or pill fall more quickly down your throat. A small “duck shake” after lifting your head can help the process.
• Bending Your Neck: For some people, bending their neck down can make swallowing feel more natural. This angle may help the candy or pill slide down more comfortably.

---

Practice, Track, and Adjust

Like any new skill, swallowing pills takes practice. Set aside some time over the next two weeks to practice with the candy and experiment with different head positions. As you practice, make a note of which head position works best for you. You might find that your preferences change over time, and that’s okay!

You might also find that you feel more comfortable in different positions on different days. Tracking your progress helps you discover what works and makes the process less stressful.

---

Ready for Pills

After practicing with the candy and identifying the best techniques for you, you’ll be ready to try swallowing pills with confidence. Remember, it’s a gradual process, and it’s completely normal to need time to adjust. With patience, persistence, and the right techniques, you’ll be able to conquer pill swallowing and make the experience much easier.

---

Additional ASPIRE Resources

 

Managing Needle Fear: Practical Tips for Blood Draws & Infusions

Needle fear is real, and you’re not alone. Whether it’s a quick blood draw or a longer infusion, the anxiety can be overwhelming. PANS/PANDAS symptoms can make this even tougher, but with the right strategies, it’s possible to make these experiences more manageable. Here are practical tips to help reduce stress and anxiety.

🔗 Managing Needle Fear: Practical Tips for Blood Draws & Infusions

Hydration & IVIG: Why It Matters

Proper hydration is key when undergoing IVIG treatments. Staying hydrated not only supports overall health but helps ensure the treatment works effectively. Learn why hydration matters for those undergoing IVIG therapy and how it can make a difference in the treatment experience.

🔗 Hydration & IVIG: Why It Matters

---

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. ASPIRE is not responsible for any decisions made based on this information.

---