Common Tube Feeding Challenges and How to Help

Over the course of a tube feeder’s journey, challenges may occur. These hurdles could include gastrointestinal issues, tube complications, or skin irritation, among others. While these basic guidelines are not a substitute for professional medical advice, they are meant to acknowledge common challenges you may encounter and assure you that you are not alone: there are effective solutions available for these issues. As always consult your healthcare team with any questions about your tube feeding experience. 

Gastrointestinal issues. 

If you or your loved one are experiencing gastrointestinal issues that don’t go away, you should address them with your healthcare team. There are many options to discuss with your team, including trying a different formula or adjusting the feeding method. Continual discomfort should not be the norm!  

Tube issues.

Skin issues.

If you or your loved one has redness, pain, swelling, or irritation of the skin around the tube, please let your healthcare team know. Possible causes could be that the tube or external bolster are too tight or loose, that the cleaners you’re using to clean the tube are too harsh, or you could potentially be experiencing a bacterial or yeast infection.  

The skin around your feeding tube should look clean and healthy. If you notice anything different, consult your healthcare team. 

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