What are feeding tubes?

Feeding tubes are medical devices used to deliver nutrition, fluids, and medications directly into the stomach or small intestine when a person cannot eat or swallow normally. They may be temporary or long-term and are essential for people with conditions like stroke, neurological disorders, cancer, or severe digestive issues.

What are the different types of feeding tubes?

Common types include:

• Nasogastric (NG) tube – Inserted through the nose into the stomach (short-term use)
• Nasojejunal (NJ) tube – Goes through the nose into the small intestine
• Gastrostomy (G-tube) – Surgically placed directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall
• Jejunostomy (J-tube) – Placed into the small intestine for those with stomach issues
• PEG tube (Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy) – A type of G-tube placed using an endoscope

What are common feeding tube issues?

Despite their benefits, feeding tubes can have complications such as:

• Tube blockage – Caused by thick formula, medication buildup, or inadequate flushing
• Tube dislodgment or migration – The tube moves out of position
• Skin irritation or infection – Around the insertion site
• Leakage – Formula or stomach contents leaking around the site
• Granulation tissue – Overgrowth of healing tissue around the stoma
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea – Often due to the type or rate of feeding
• Aspiration – Formula entering the lungs if feeding isn’t properly managed

What causes these problems?

Feeding tube issues can result from:

• Improper care or cleaning
• Incorrect tube placement or movement
• Formula that’s too thick or fast-flowing
• Poor skin hygiene around the tube site
• Inadequate flushing before and after feeding or medications

What are the symptoms of feeding tube complications?

Watch for:

• Redness, swelling, or discharge at the tube site
• Unusual pain or tenderness
• Tube not staying in place or falling out
• Feeding formula not flowing or backing up
• Nausea, bloating, or vomiting during feedings
• Fever or signs of infection
• Difficulty flushing or administering feeds

How are feeding tube issues treated?

Treatment depends on the problem:

• Blocked tube: Try flushing with warm water; if unsuccessful, consult a healthcare provider
• Dislodged tube: Do not use it—seek medical assistance for repositioning
• Infections or irritation: Clean the site regularly, use prescribed ointments or antibiotics if needed
• Granulation tissue: May require topical treatment or cauterization
• Digestive issues: Adjust formula type, temperature, or feeding rate

How can feeding tube problems be prevented?

• Flush the tube with warm water before and after feedings or medications
• Use proper technique when administering feeds
• Keep the insertion site clean and dry
• Check tube placement regularly if applicable
• Secure the tube to prevent accidental pulling
• Follow feeding schedules and formulas as advised by a healthcare provider
• Educate caregivers and patients on routine care and red flags

When should you contact a doctor?

Call your healthcare provider if:

• The tube falls out or seems out of place
• You notice signs of infection (fever, redness, pus)
• There’s persistent pain, vomiting, or diarrhea
• You’re unable to flush or feed through the tube
• There’s significant skin breakdown or bleeding