Hydration, Dehydration, and Aspiration in Parkinson’s Disease - Challenges and Solutions

Written By: Renee Rouleau- M.S. Neuroscience and Bridges for Parkinson’s Medical Science Advisor

As we’ve learned throughout the year, Parkinson’s disease (PD) presents many challenges beyond the well-known motor symptoms. One of the most overlooked, but potentially dangerous, issues is dehydration. Individuals living with PD often consume less fluid than people without PD (Sleeman et al., 2025), which can amplify existing symptoms and significantly affect overall health. Understanding hydration needs, swallowing risks, and supportive solutions—such as hydration gummies—can make a meaningful difference in daily well-being.

Why Dehydration Matters in PD

Dehydration occurs when the body doesn’t take in enough fluid to maintain normal function. In Parkinson’s disease, this problem is often worsened by factors such as difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), reduced appetite, fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues. When fluid intake drops, symptoms commonly associated with PD such as constipation, cognitive changes, and dizziness can become more severe (Sleeman et al., 2025). In some individuals, dehydration may even worsen motor function and low blood pressure.

Recognizing early signs of dehydration is essential so that intervention can occur before the situation becomes serious. Warning signs include:

• Dry mouth or excessive thirst

• Reduced urine output

• Fatigue or weakness

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Dry skin or poor skin elasticity

• Constipation

  
  

Because many of these symptoms already overlap with PD, it can be challenging to determine whether the cause is dehydration, disease progression, or something else entirely. When in doubt—or if symptoms worsen—consult a medical professional.

Hydration and the Risk of Aspiration

Even when a person with PD wants to drink more fluids, swallowing challenges can make hydration difficult. Dysphagia reduces the efficiency of swallowing and increases the risk of aspiration—when food, liquids, or saliva accidentally enter the lungs instead of the stomach. Aspiration can lead to pneumonia, a dangerous and sometimes life-threatening condition. Repeated episodes can tax the immune system and put individuals at even higher health risk (Kalf et al., 2012).

Drinking large quantities of fluid quickly or consuming very thin liquids may further increase aspiration risk. Because of this, safe hydration strategies often require personalized guidance, sometimes involving speech or swallowing therapy.

Hydration Gummies: A Helpful Supplement—Not a Magic Fix

Hydration gummies are a newer option gaining attention as a possible solution. These chewable products contain electrolytes and small amounts of fluid delivered in a gel-like form. Because they do not behave like thin liquids, they may reduce aspiration risk for individuals with mild swallowing challenges.

Many people find hydration gummies more enjoyable or approachable than constantly drinking water. However, it’s crucial to understand their limitations: gummies cannot replace normal fluid intake. They are best used as supplemental support, not as a complete hydration strategy. Additionally, research on their long-term safety and effectiveness in Parkinson’s disease is very limited, so approach online claims cautiously.

Practical Tools Beyond Gummies

Fortunately, hydration doesn’t have to be limited to drinking plain water. Other strategies can support fluid intake while enhancing swallowing safety:

• Thickened liquids: Adding thickening agents to water, tea, or juice slows the swallowing process and can reduce aspiration (Masuda et al., 2021).

• Water-rich foods: Soups, smoothies, yogurt, fruits, and vegetables—such as cucumbers, melon, or citrus—offer hydration in easier-to-consume forms.

• Work with a speech-language pathologist (SLP): SLPs can evaluate swallowing function and create individualized recommendations for safer eating and drinking habits.

• Monitor risk signals: Watch for signs of dehydration (dark urine, confusion, dry skin) and aspiration (coughing while eating, breathlessness).

Early intervention and preventive care make a real difference (Pence et al., 2025). Each small improvement in hydration can contribute to better energy levels, safer eating experiences, and improved quality of life.

Final Thoughts

Hydration and safe swallowing are vital components of managing Parkinson’s disease. While dehydration and aspiration present real risks, there are practical and empowering strategies to address them. Hydration gummies, thickened liquids, nutrient-dense foods, and professional swallowing support can help individuals with PD stay safe while meeting their fluid needs.

As awareness grows around how hydration influences Parkinson’s symptoms, both patients and caregivers can take proactive steps to protect health. By prioritizing hydration and understanding how eating, drinking, and swallowing interact, people living with PD can take meaningful strides toward a healthier and more comfortable future.

References:

Kalf J. G., de Swart B. J., Bloem B. R., Munneke M. Prevalence of Oropharyngeal Dysphagia in Parkinson’s Disease: A Meta-Analysis. Parkinsonism & Related Disorders . 2012;18(4):311–315. doi: 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2011.11.006.

Masuda, H., Ueha, R., Sato, T., Goto, T., Koyama, M., Yamauchi, A., Kaneoka, A., Suzuki, S., & Yamasoba, T. (2022). Risk Factors for Aspiration Pneumonia After Receiving Liquid-Thickening Recommendations. Otolaryngology--head and neck surgery : official journal of American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, 167(1), 125–132. https://doi.org/10.1177/01945998211049114

Pence, J., Davis, A., Allen-Gregory, E., & Bloomer, R. J. (2025). Hydration Strategies in Older Adults. Nutrients, 17(14), 2256. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17142256

Sleeman, I. J., MacLeod, A. D., Tarr, C., McGhee, C., Fyfe, C., Stewart, C., Scott, K., Myint, P. K., & Johnstone, A. M. (2025). Daily Fluid Intake in People With Newly Diagnosed Parkinson's Disease Is Reduced Compared With Controls. Parkinson's disease, 2025, 2440967. https://doi.org/10.1155/padi/2440967