What Is Aspiration Pneumonia?
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
2. Causes
Most of us have experienced times when food has gone down the wrong tube. This is usually coughed back up again before it can do us any harm. This is not always the case, however, meaning the food can end up in our lungs. This food may contain a lot of bacteria, and this can lead to an infection in the lungs, which is commonly known as pneumonia. Other particles other than food can also be responsible.
Aspiration pneumonia tends to happen in people that have some form of impairment. These can include throat cancer and disorders of the esophagus. Some neurological disorders can result in the problem, as can a weakened immune system. Dental issues might also lead to aspiration pneumonia, as can substance abuse.
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