Tube feeding information

FEEDING TUBES

Tube feeding, also known as enteral feeding, is a method of providing nutrition, hydration and medication to individuals who cannot consume food orally due to various reasons. This ensures the body receives all essential nutrients needed to stay alive and functioning. The nutritional formula, known as "feed" , typically comes in a liquid form but can also be a blended diet where regular food is pureed into a liquid consistency. Which is delivered through a flexible feeding tube.

Did you know? Some people who are tube-fed can still eat and drink a certain amount. Not everyone who is tube-fed is nil by mouth. 

REASONS WHY SOMEONE NEEDS A FEEDING TUBE.

There are several reasons why someone might need a feeding tube. This can include short term uses, however they are also used in manging long term conditions, Here are just some examples why someone might require a feeding tube;

  • they have a problem with swallowing, chocking or aspiration ( which happens if food enters the lungs). 
  • Digestive and stomach conditions.
    Chronic Illnesses
  • Malnutrition
  • Neurological Conditions

That is just to name a few, there are many more reasons why someone might need a feeding tube.
 

REMINDER

People who are tube-fed have different reasons for needing this form of Nutrison, medication or hydration. Not everyone who is tube-fed has the same condition or circumstances. Each person who is tube fed has a unique journey and the purpose for their tube. They are used by people of all ages. It can be for a visible or invisible condition, but still require a feeding tube. 

DIFFERENT TYPES OF FEEDING TUBE.

The specific type of tube will depend on the reason for the tube and how long the person will likely need to use it. As mentioned previously, they can be temporary or permanent. If you no longer require a feeding tube, it can be removed. Many people are not aware of or have not heard of a feeding tube before. Feeding tubes can go through the nose or the skin of the abdomen. Here are the different types of feeding tubes and some information about them.

  • Nasogastric feeding tube (NG): An NG tube goes through the nose, down the esophagus, and into the stomach.
  • Nasojejunal feeding tube (NJ): NJ tubes are similar to NG tubes except they bypass the stomach and go into the jejunum (small intestine). This is used when feeding into the stomach isn’t tolerated.
  • PEG Tube: Also known as a G tube, this is placed via endoscope directly into the stomach through a small incision in the abdomen's skin.
  • RIG Tube: Similar to a PEG tube but placed by an interventional radiologist.
  • PEG-J Tube (GJ): A PEG-J tube, also known as a GJ tube, is similar to a PEG tube except it bypasses the stomach and goes directly into the small intestine (jejunum).
  • Jejunostomy (Jej): A surgically placed tube that goes through a small incision in the abdomen's skin directly into the small intestine.
  • Button (Mic-Key): A low-profile tube held in place by a bumper or balloon.

Facts: G tubes and J tubes are less visible than NG and NJ tubes. However, their placement is different as they need to be placed via surgery or procedure, making them more of a permanent option.

A stoma site is on the abdomen where the tube is inserted. The location of the stoma site depends on the type of tube.

 

(All Views are my own and my own experience of being tube fed)