Why isn't a nasogastric tube inserted through the mouth?

Nasogastric intubation refers to enteral feeding via the nose. Feeding is typically not performed through the mouth because it tends to cause greater irritation. Specific reasons are as follows:

The main indications for nasogastric feeding include diseases of the stomach, duodenum, biliary tract, or pancreas—such as after gastrectomy due to gastric cancer, or during the recovery phase of acute severe pancreatitis—when patients cannot eat orally but still have normal small intestine and colon function. A feeding tube is usually inserted through the nose into the jejunum. By administering nutritional fluids through this tube, daily caloric needs can be met, thereby reducing the need for intravenous nutrition. Patients requiring nasogastric feeding generally cannot eat independently. If feeding were attempted orally, the simultaneous opening of the airway and digestive tract could lead to coughing or choking. Oral feeding might also cause food reflux; even minor aspiration into the lungs could result in aspiration pneumonia, while significant reflux could pose a risk of suffocation.

If patients experience any discomfort, they should seek medical attention promptly. In daily life, dietary adjustments are important, with emphasis on light, easily digestible foods.