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Pneumococci organism
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OverviewSymptomsTreatmentPrevention

Aspiration pneumonia

Alternative Names:
Anaerobic pneumonia; Aspiration of vomitus; Necrotizing pneumonia

Treatment:

Hospitalization may be required for management of the illness. Treatment measures vary depending on the severity of the pneumonia. Antibiotics, which treat the organisms in the environment, may be given. Patients may receive special antibiotics to treat organisms that may live in the mouth.

The types of organisms present depend on the health of the patient and where they live (private residence, chronic nursing facility, etc.).

Patients may need to have their swallowing function assessed. If there is difficulty with proper swallowing, other methods of feeding the patient may be necessary.



Expectations (prognosis):
The outcome depends on the severity of the pneumonia, the type of organism, the extent of lung involvement. If acuterespiratory failure develops, the patient may have a prolonged illness or die.

Complications:


Calling your health care provider:
Call your health care provider, go to the emergency room, or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if shortness of breath, wheezing, chills, fever, or chest pain occur.

Review Date: 5/6/2003
Reviewed By: David A. Kaufman, M.D., Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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