Aspiration pneumonia
Aspiration Pneumonia
Aspiration pneumonia (/æˌspaɪəˈreɪʃən njuːˈmoʊniə/) is a type of lung infection that is due to a relatively large amount of material from the stomach or mouth entering the lungs.
Etymology
The term "aspiration" comes from the Latin aspirare, which means "to breathe out," but in this context, it refers to the accidental inhalation of substances into the lungs. "Pneumonia" is derived from the Greek pneumon, meaning "lung," and the suffix -ia, indicating a condition or disease.
Signs and Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of aspiration pneumonia may include cough, fever, shortness of breath, chest pain, and wheezing. In severe cases, it can lead to respiratory failure, sepsis, and lung abscess.
Causes
Aspiration pneumonia is often caused by a dysfunction of the swallowing reflex, leading to the inhalation of stomach contents, saliva, or nasal secretions. Risk factors include old age, stroke, dementia, Parkinson's disease, and sedation or anesthesia.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of aspiration pneumonia typically involves a chest X-ray or CT scan, along with a review of the patient's medical history and symptoms. A sputum culture may also be performed to identify the type of bacteria causing the infection.
Treatment
Treatment for aspiration pneumonia usually involves antibiotics to fight the bacterial infection, along with supportive care such as oxygen therapy and physiotherapy to help clear the lungs.
Prevention
Prevention strategies for aspiration pneumonia include proper oral hygiene, upright positioning during meals, and careful monitoring of individuals with swallowing difficulties.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Aspiration pneumonia
- Wikipedia's article - Aspiration pneumonia
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