Contents
Are You at Risk? Understanding the Factors Behind Aspiration Pneumonia
Published: Mar 26, 2024
Aspiration pneumonia doesn't affect everyone equally. Certain factors can significantly increase your risk of developing this serious lung infection.
Age and Health Conditions
Age is a major risk factor for aspiration pneumonia, with older adults being particularly vulnerable. This is often due to age-related changes in swallowing function and overall health. Certain health conditions also increase risk, including stroke, Parkinson's disease, dementia, and other neurological disorders that affect swallowing or consciousness.
Medications and Treatments
Some medications can increase the risk of aspiration by causing drowsiness or affecting the swallowing reflex. These include sedatives, antipsychotics, and certain pain medications. Medical treatments like feeding tubes or being on a ventilator also raise the risk of aspiration pneumonia.
Lifestyle Factors
Certain lifestyle factors can contribute to increased risk. Poor dental hygiene allows harmful bacteria to grow in the mouth, which can then be aspirated into the lungs. Smoking damages the lungs' natural defense mechanisms. Excessive alcohol use can impair consciousness and the gag reflex, making aspiration more likely.
Swallowing Difficulties
Any condition that makes swallowing difficult (dysphagia) increases the risk of aspiration. This can be due to neurological conditions, structural problems in the throat or esophagus, or muscle weakness. Even silent aspiration, where small amounts of food or liquid enter the lungs without obvious choking, can lead to pneumonia over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but it's less common and usually related to specific incidents.
Yes, GERD can increase the risk of aspirating stomach contents.
Yes, poor oral hygiene can allow harmful bacteria to grow and be aspirated.
No, but some inherited conditions may increase risk.
Yes, obesity can affect breathing and increase reflux risk.
The Bottom Line
Understanding your risk factors is the first step in preventing aspiration pneumonia.
References
- Mandell LA, Niederman MS. Aspiration Pneumonia. N Engl J Med 2019; 380:651.
- Marik PE. Aspiration pneumonitis and aspiration pneumonia. N Engl J Med 2001; 344:665.
- DiBardino DM, Wunderink RG. Aspiration pneumonia: a review of modern trends. J Crit Care 2015; 30:40.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?