Aspiration pneumonia
About Aspiration pneumonia
An inflammation and infection of the lung caused by breathing in contents from the mouth or stomach. Material such as food, vomit, mucous, saliva or other substances from the mouth enter the airways and lung tissue causing inflammation and an infection. This disorder is more common in patients who are intoxicated, confused, have swallowing problems or have had a stroke. The bacteria that cause this type of lung infection are different than the organisms that normally cause pneumonia. If left untreated this condition can be fatal.Symptoms
Cough, chest pain, fever, breath with a foul smell, breathing problems, blue skin discoloration (cyanosis), confusion.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be done. An x-ray, CT scan and blood tests are usually performed. Cultures of the sputum and blood may be done as well.Common tests: Arterial Blood Gas (ABG), Blood cultures, Complete blood count (CBC), CT Scan, Sputum culture, X-ray.
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Treatment depends on the severity of the infection and may include hospitalization, oxygen, intravenous fluids, artificial respiration, and antibiotics.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Pediatrics · Pulmonology · Family Practice · Infectious Disease Medicine · Pediatric Pulmonology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Aspiration pneumonia.