aspiratsioonipneumoonia

Aspiratsioonipneumoonia is an inflammation of the lungs caused by inhaling foreign materials, such as food, liquids, vomit, or other substances, into the airways and lungs. This material can irritate the lung tissue, leading to infection and inflammation. The risk of aspiration is increased in individuals with certain medical conditions or situations that impair their ability to swallow or protect their airway. These include neurological disorders like stroke or Parkinson's disease, impaired consciousness due to alcohol or drug use, gastrointestinal issues such as reflux, and in certain medical procedures.

Symptoms of aspiration pneumonia can vary but often include a cough, sometimes producing phlegm that may be green, yellow, or bloody, fever, shortness of breath, chest pain, and a whistling sound when breathing. In severe cases, it can lead to difficulty breathing and low oxygen levels. Diagnosis is typically based on a patient's history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as chest X-rays or CT scans, which can reveal characteristic patterns of pneumonia in the lungs.

Treatment focuses on addressing the infection and preventing further aspiration. This usually involves antibiotics to treat the bacterial infection, supportive care to manage symptoms like oxygen therapy for shortness of breath, and in some cases, procedures to clear the airways. Prevention strategies are crucial and may include modifying feeding techniques, elevating the head of the bed, and managing underlying medical conditions that increase aspiration risk.