Q: What is a feeding tube and how does it work?
A: Tube feeding is a therapy where a feeding tube supplies nutrients to people who cannot get enough nutrition through eating. A flexible tube is inserted through the nose or belly area to provide nutrients by delivering liquid nutrition directly into the stomach or small intestine.
Q: Is a feeding tube painful?
A: A feeding tube can be uncomfortable and even painful sometimes. You'll need to adjust your sleeping position and make extra time to clean and maintain your tube and to handle any complications. Still, you can do most things as you always have.
Q: Can you eat food with a feeding tube?
A: If an individual can eat by mouth safely, then he/she can eat food and supplement with tube feeding if necessary. Eating food will not cause damage to the tube, nor does having a feeding tube make it unsafe to eat.