What Is Post Polio Syndrome?
5. Aspiration Pneumonia
Aspiration pneumonia is caused when food particles are accidentally inhaled into the lungs. The particles are likely to contain bacteria and these bacteria can take hold in the lungs, causing an infection in the organs. It can happen in people with post polio syndrome because they can develop difficulties chewing and swallowing.
This can happen in people that had bulbar polio particularly, which affects the nerves that help control chewing and swallowing. Difficulties performing these actions can cause further problems because the patient is unable to eat and drink. They can become dehydrated and malnourished, both of which can be dangerous.
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