Eating and Drinking with Moebius Syndrome

Since people with Moebius syndrome’s mouths are different, we have certain challenges with drinking and eating.

I’m not able to use a metal straw well because I can’t pucker and my facial muscles are underdeveloped so I can’t suck that well. Using plastic straws just works better because I can bite down on them, and it helps me suck better. And if I’m drinking a smoothie or a shake that’s too thick for me to suck with a straw, sometimes I’ll need to eat it with a spoon instead.

Also, I tend to prefer drinking glasses that have lips on them or are angled because otherwise sometimes the liquid will drip a little bit down the glass because my bottom lip isn’t able to catch it as well. Again, I feel like non-Moebius people don’t have that issue because they are able to make a pucker motion with their bottom lip to stop the liquid from dripping down.

As for eating, my mouth is a lot tinier than average people’s mouths. So, when I order a sandwich or food that is thicker I do my best to squish it down so it can fit in my mouth. Thick sandwiches served on hard rolls can be tricky. I tend to end up taking one side of the bun off so I can fit it in my mouth. A lot of us Moebius folks have learned how to adapt.

Also, due to our facial paralysis we are physically unable to chew with our mouths closed. It’s not because we are meaning to be rude or have “bad manners.” We are just unable to close our mouths as we chew.

Chewing can be difficult too, due to lack of muscle strength. I will often put my hand up to my cheek to help myself chew.

I hope you are enjoying learning more about me / Moebius Syndrome! Remember to wear purple January 24th for Moebius Syndrome Awareness Day!