--- title: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment of Aspiration Pneumonia description: Aspiration pneumonia can be dangerous, especially to those with emphysema. Portable emergency suction can help prevent aspiration pneumonia, as well as its attendant complications. image: https://blog.sscor.com/hubfs/Blog%20284%20-%20Resized.jpg --- [![dark-header.jpg](https://blog.sscor.com/hs-fs/hub/212347/file-1107077240.jpg?width=940&name=file-1107077240.jpg "dark-header.jpg")](https://www.sscor.com/) ## **Thank you for visiting the SSCOR Blog.** Whether you're in a Hospital or EMS setting, this is the place for you. We'll share information on current industry news, tips, as well as the latest and greatest in SSCOR products. Our hope is that this blog is not only informative but a collaborative and open forum for you to share your thoughts on developing opportunities and challenges within your profession. Subscribe. Share your thoughts. Enjoy. -SSCOR Team   # [Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment of Aspiration Pneumonia](https://blog.sscor.com/signs-symptoms-and-treatment-of-aspiration-pneumonia) Posted by [Sam D. Say](https://blog.sscor.com/author/sam-d-say) Feb 13, 2023 8:00:00 AM 4 min read - [![LinkedIn Social Icon](https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hub/142915/file-2628248555-png/images/icons/linkedin-small.png) ](https://blog.sscor.com/signs-symptoms-and-treatment-of-aspiration-pneumonia#) 0 - [![Facebook Social Icon](https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hub/142915/file-2623658044-png/images/icons/fb-small.png) ](https://blog.sscor.com/signs-symptoms-and-treatment-of-aspiration-pneumonia#) 0 ![Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment of Aspiration Pneumonia](https://blog.sscor.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20284%20-%20Resized.jpg?width=2121&name=Blog%20284%20-%20Resized.jpg) Aspiration pneumonia has a [mortality rate of 5% to15%](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470459/#:~:text=Several%20studies%20revealed%20that%20aspiration,%2Dday%20mortality%20of%2021%25.), and that rises to as much as 22.7% in [those with COPD](https://lungdiseasenews.com/2015/07/14/copd-patients-aspiration-pneumonia-community-acquired-pneumonia-cap-distinct-mortality-rates/). The secretions patients aspirate are often contaminated with pathogens from the oral cavity, increasing the rate of morbidity and necessitating additional interventions, and potentially long hospital stays. Prompt intervention is the key to preventing serious complications associated with aspiration pneumonia. [Portable emergency suction](https://info.sscor.com/portable-emergency-suction-tool-in-aspiration-pheumonia?hsCtaTracking=c37f6462-3e91-48be-b40c-cd27b7cfee5d%7C7a649698-619e-4032-a1f0-7e94fe14baa2) can help prevent aspiration pneumonia, as well as its attendant complications. [![New: Free Emergency Aspirator Purchasing Guide for Hospitals](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/212347/8b3f08ff-a209-4f08-b702-68de84bac45b.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/212347/8b3f08ff-a209-4f08-b702-68de84bac45b)   ## **Risk Factors for Aspiration Pneumonia** The two most significant [risk factors](http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0140060) for aspiration pneumonia are advanced age and having a respiratory disorder. Additional [risk factors include](https://eatspeakthink.com/10-factors-increase-risk-aspiration-pneumonia/):   -  Feeding dependence - Poor oral hygiene or dental disease - Ambulation is limited or infrequent - The respiratory system is compromised - Cough function is impaired - A previous case of aspiration pneumonia - A compromised immune system - Acid reflux - Currently smoking - Radiation therapy of the head and neck - Stroke - Drug overdose   Most guides for dealing with aspiration focus on the respiratory aspects of this medical emergency, but aspirate can also be an infectious agent. Aspirating contaminated fluids is particularly dangerous in people with weakened immune systems or underlying medical conditions, including the very elderly and those with a history of sepsis.   First responders should view anyone with fluid in the oral cavity or throat as being at high risk for [aspiration pneumonia](https://blog.sscor.com/tips-for-avoiding-aspiration-pneumonia). This is why prompt suction when a person can’t clear their own airway is so critical.   ## **Signs and Symptoms of Aspiration Pneumonia** Aspiration pneumonia is not always obvious. It can develop immediately or get steadily worse over time. Some patients continually aspirate more and more fluid, greatly increasing their mortality risk. Some [signs and symptoms](https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-information/conditions-treated-a-to-z/aspiration-pneumonia) to monitor include:   - Chest pain - The coughing up of foul-smelling, greenish or dark phlegm (sputum), or phlegm that contains blood or pus - Fatigue - Fever - Shortness of breath - Wheezing - Bad breath - Sweating excessively - Swallowing problems - Confusion   Clinical signs include changes in respiratory sounds, low oxygen saturation, altered consciousness, and a rapid pulse.   [![New: Ultimate Guide To Purchasing A Portable Emergency Suction Device](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/212347/55c49bab-8acd-48d9-a274-d480a9b3e678.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/212347/55c49bab-8acd-48d9-a274-d480a9b3e678)   ## **Treatment and Prevention** The most significant [predictor of mortality](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470459/) in aspiration pneumonia is the volume of fluid swallowed. In ill populations who aspirate large volumes of fluid, mortality can be as high as 70%. Continual monitoring of people at risk for aspiration can greatly reduce the risk.   Portable suction [plays a central role](https://www.sscor.com/portable-emergency-suction-a-critical-tool-in-avoiding-aspiration-pneumonia) in both preventing and treating aspiration pneumonia. Ensure your mobile suction unit is always handy, charged, and functioning well. Daily testing is key. It’s also important to have appropriate disposables on hand and to clean the unit after each use. The device can be a source of contamination, elevating risk in someone who has already been exposed to bacteria in their aspirate.   Patients with limited mobility may need help positioning themselves in a way that minimizes the risk of further aspiration. This is doubly important for those who are actively vomiting.   Gram-negative bacilli are the [predominant contaminant](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470459/) in aspirated fluids, but a wide variety of bacteria can infect the lungs and airway, so patients who have aspirated must still be transported and evaluated. At the hospital, broad-spectrum antibiotics will be administered immediately. Because a wide range of infectious agents can be inhaled, a doctor may perform a culture to determine the right antibiotic.    Treatment of any underlying factors contributing to the aspiration is also paramount. A person with COPD, for instance, may need to switch medications or be on oxygen, while a drug overdose patient will likely need ongoing counseling and rehabilitation. For help choosing the right portable suction device for your agency, download our free guide, [The Ultimate Guide to Purchasing a Portable Emergency Suction Device](https://info.sscor.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-purchasing-a-portable-emergency-suction-device).   *Editor's Note: This blog was originally published in February 2023. It has been re-published with additional up to date content.*   [![New Call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/212347/9612b368-68bd-40fd-8df2-b49e908313ab.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/212347/9612b368-68bd-40fd-8df2-b49e908313ab) Topics: [aspiration pneumonia](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/aspiration-pneumonia) ![Author Photo](https://blog.sscor.com/hs-fs/hubfs/SDS2-648378-edited.jpg?width=70&name=SDS2-648378-edited.jpg) ## AboutSam D. Say Sam D. Say is owner and CEO of SSCOR, Inc., a medical device manufacturer specializing in emergency battery operated portable suction devices for the hospital and pre-hospital settings. Mr. Say has been involved in developing product for healthcare providers for over 35 years. His passions include contributing to the management of the patient airway and providing solutions that save lives in difficult conditions. Search #### Most Popular Articles ### Post by Topic - [Medical Suction (103)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/medical-suction) - [Airway management (102)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/airway-management) - [Emergency Preparedness (92)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/emergency-preparedness) - [Emergency medical suction (73)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/emergency-medical-suction) - [Portable suction for hospitals (34)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/portable-suction-for-hospitals) - [EMS suction (27)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/ems-suction) - [Handheld portable suction (26)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/handheld-portable-suction) - [Suction for EMS professionals (24)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/suction-for-ems-professionals) - [Respiratory (19)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/respiratory) - [medical scenarios (17)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/medical-scenarios) - [portable suction (16)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/portable-suction) - [Battery-powered suction (15)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/battery-powered-suction) - [EMS Professionals (15)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/ems-professionals) - [airway obstruction (15)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/airway-obstruction) - [Hospital disaster preparation (14)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/hospital-disaster-preparation) - [respiratory assessment (13)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/respiratory-assessment) - [Intubation (10)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/intubation) - [Pediatric Suction (10)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/pediatric-suction) - [Medical Suction for Dental (9)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/medical-suction-for-dental) - [Tactical trauma kit (7)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/tactical-trauma-kit) - [Crash Cart Supplies (6)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/crash-cart-supplies) - [Trauma (6)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/trauma) - [emt scenarios (6)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/emt-scenarios) - [Diseases & Infections (5)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/diseases-infections) - [aspiration pneumonia (5)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/aspiration-pneumonia) - [Aspiration (4)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/aspiration) - [Patient Transport (4)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/patient-transport) - [ambulance safety (4)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/ambulance-safety) - [Anaphylaxis (3)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/anaphylaxis) - [Suction Catheter (3)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/suction-catheter) - [nasotracheal intubation (3)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/nasotracheal-intubation) - [CDC (2)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/cdc) - [Medical Suction for Drowning (2)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/medical-suction-for-drowning) - [Tactical medical bag (1)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/tactical-medical-bag) - [medical devices (1)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/medical-devices) - [rapid sequence intubation (1)](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/rapid-sequence-intubation) [see all](https://blog.sscor.com/signs-symptoms-and-treatment-of-aspiration-pneumonia#) [![subscribe_to_sscor_blog](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/212347/1209b5e9-2bd5-461c-9673-0f13ab98cab8.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/212347/1209b5e9-2bd5-461c-9673-0f13ab98cab8) [![Aspirator_test_kit_sscor_suction](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/212347/09b997f8-6c33-450c-9e98-6ea0f907f383.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/212347/09b997f8-6c33-450c-9e98-6ea0f907f383) [![determining_contents_of_first_in_bag_guide_for_paramedics](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/212347/03d28100-2a96-4c68-93d1-3e06a3b91cad.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/212347/03d28100-2a96-4c68-93d1-3e06a3b91cad) - [![DUET-B-Front-370px](https://blog.sscor.com/hubfs/DUET-B-Front-370px.png "DUET-B-Front-370px")](https://www.sscor.com/duet_suction_unit_retention_bracket_portable_aspirator) - [![Duet Bracket Back with bracket](https://blog.sscor.com/hubfs/DUETBB-back-370px.png "Duet Bracket Back with bracket")](https://www.sscor.com/duet_suction_unit_retention_bracket_portable_aspirator) - [![S-SCORT III Front](https://blog.sscor.com/hubfs/S-SCORT3-front-370px.png "S-SCORT III Front")](https://www.sscor.com/s-scort_iii_suction_unit) - [![S-SCORT-III3-control-panel](https://blog.sscor.com/hubfs/S-SCORT3-control-panel-370px.png "S-SCORT-III3-control-panel")](https://www.sscor.com/s-scort_iii_suction_unit) - [![VX2-B-font](https://blog.sscor.com/hubfs/VX2-B-font-370px.png "VX2-B-font")](https://www.sscor.com/s-scort_vx2_option_portable_ems_suction) - [![VX-2 Bracket Back with Bracket](https://blog.sscor.com/hubfs/VX2BB-Back-370px.png "VX-2 Bracket Back with Bracket")](https://www.sscor.com/s-scort_vx2_option_portable_ems_suction) - [![Quickdraw Front](https://blog.sscor.com/hubfs/Quickdraw-370px.png "Quickdraw Front")](https://www.sscor.com/quickdraw_portable_suction_unit) - [![DCELL-front-angle](https://blog.sscor.com/hubfs/DCELL-front-angle-370px.png "DCELL-front-angle")](https://www.sscor.com/dcell_suction_hospital_aspirator) - [![DCELL-back](https://blog.sscor.com/hubfs/DCELL-back-370px.png "DCELL-back")](https://www.sscor.com/dcell_suction_hospital_aspirator) ### Follow us on social media: ## SSCOR Clearing The Airway Is Our #1 Priority **Company** [SSCOR Website](https://www.sscor.com/index.html) [About Us](https://www.sscor.com/who_are_we.html) [Contact Us](https://www.sscor.com/sales_support.html)   **Resources** [FAQ](https://www.sscor.com/Frequently-Asked-Questions.html) [Technical Support](https://www.sscor.com/technical-product-support.html) **Updates** [Upcoming Events](https://www.sscor.com/upcoming_events.html) *All data and information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. SSCOR, Inc. makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this blog and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. All information is provided on an as-is basis.* Images and content of this blog are © 2023 SSCOR, Inc. All rights reserved.