A randomised controlled study of the effects of oral intake of water inneuroligical disorder dysphagic patients who have been prescribed thickened fluids with consideration to bacterial colonisation and immunological response.

INTERVENTION: Patients prescribed thickened fluids will be able to consume unlimited amounts of thin water for a period of five days that will be provided to them by nursing staff. All fluids other than wter will be thickened. There will be no limit to the amount of thin or thickened water. Participants will already have been prescribed thickened fluids by their treating Speech pathologist. CONDITION: Dysphagia PRIMARY OUTCOME: To assess quality of life and hydration levels in patients who are prescribed thickened fluids and are allowed acces to water compared with patients who are only able to consume thickened fluids. SECONDARY OUTCOME: To assess changes in immune function with the provision of thin water. INCLUSION CRITERIA: Participants who have been prescribed thickened fluids by their treating Speech pAthologist will have the opportunity to be included in the study.