The literature contains limited data on the effect of oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD) and thickened fluid (TF) therapy on hydration status. The present study assessed the hydration status in patients with OD and the effect TF therapy has on it. 

It performed two literature reviews following PRISMA methodology (each one including a systematic and a scoping review): (R1) hydration status in adult patients with OD; (R2) effect of TF therapy on fluid intake and dehydration. It assessed the Quality by Joanna Briggs Institute tools and GRADE. 

The study observed-

• (R1) Five out of twenty-two studies using analytical parameters or bioimpedance displayed poorer hydration status among OD and 19–100% prevalence of dehydration.
• (R2) two high-quality studies (with 724 participants) showed positive effects of TF on hydration status.
• Nine out of ten studies evaluating fluid intake reported a reduced TF intake below basal water requirements. 

This study shows dehydration as a highly prevalent complication in OD. Evidence suggests the positive effect of TF therapy on the hydration status of patients with OD. Yet, strict monitoring of fluid volume intake is critical due to the low consumption of TF in these patients.

Reviews. Nutrients. 2022; 14(12):2497. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14122497