Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical Research

A common, serious illness that can be challenging to identify and distinguish from other aspiration syndromes is aspiration pneumonia. Aspiration pneumonia is brought on by inhaling foreign objects into the lungs, usually liquid, food, or saliva. This may result in infection, inflammation, and other possible side effects. A number of conditions, including dementia, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and gastrointestinal issues, can raise the risk of aspiration pneumonia. An increased risk of aspiration is associated with sedatives, specific medications, head injuries, alcohol, and narcotics. A chest X-ray or CT scan can reveal pneumonia, which is defined by regions of inflammation and fluid buildup in the lungs. Clinical observations, laboratory testing, and imaging investigations are frequently used to diagnose aspiration pneumonia. Finding the causing organism is aided via bronchoscopy. Aspiration pneumonia is usually treated with a combination of supportive care and antibiotics. Although aspiration pneumonia can be treated with antibiotics; but, contrary to reports, glucocorticoids should not be used. Taking care of underlying medical issues like GERD or swallowing problems will help stop aspiration pneumonia from happening again. In order to prevent aspiration, preventative strategies include helping people who have trouble swallowing, making sure that people eat in a seated position, minimizing distractions, closely monitoring sedatives and other drugs used for affective swallowing, getting regular dental treatment, etc. Post-pyloric tube feedings, oral therapy, diet therapies for dysphasia, and the use of a post-pyloric tube can all prevent aspiration pneumonia without increasing morbidity. It is advised that patients on mechanical ventilation adopt a semi-recumbent position.