Aspiration pneumonia is also called anaerobic pneumonia or necrotizing pneumonia. This condition causes inflammation in the lungs along with the bronchial tubes. Such an inflammation is caused when a person breathes in foreign material. The foreign material may include food, liquids, mouth secretions and even vomit.

In aspiration pneumonia the inhaling of the foreign material may lead to collection of pus within the lungs. In many cases the aspiration of any foreign material within the lungs can occur due to some disorders affecting the normal swallowing function. Esophageal disorders such as gastroesophageal reflux and esophageal stricture can also cause such a condition.

An absent or reduced gag reflex among people who are semi conscious or not alert can also result in this condition. Other problems causing aspiration pneumonia include old age, anesthesia, dental problems, excessive use of alcohol and even coma. The higher the acidity of the material breathed within the lungs the greater or more severe is the lung injury.

The symptoms associated with aspiration pneumonia include fever, fatigue along with cough. The cough may include foul smelling sputum or the sputum may also contain blood or pus. In some cases greenish sputum may also be observed. Chest pain and shortness of breath is also experienced in many cases. There may be a bluish discoloration of skin among patients as a result of low oxygen.

In many patients rapid pulse may also be observed along with wheezing. Other symptoms associated with aspiration pneumonia include excessive sweating, breath odor and difficulty in swallowing. A physical examination may uncover crackling sounds within the lungs. Some tests that can help in diagnosing this condition include a cheat x ray, blood culture, sputum culture, CBC, Bronchoscopy along with a chest CT scan.

Treatment of aspiration pneumonia depends on the extent and severity of this condition. Antibiotics may be given to treat this condition. Some patients may need hospitalization. The swallowing function of the patients may need to be assessed. The outcome of the treatment depends on the severity and the kind of organism along with the degree of lung involvement. Possible complications that can occur in this condition include spreading of the infection in the blood stream, low blood pressure, respiratory distress syndrome and shock.