Aspiration is the accidental entry of food, liquid, or other foreign objects into the airway during swallowing. This can be a serious problem, as it can lead to choking, pneumonia, and even death. There are a number of things that can increase the risk of aspiration, including:
- difficulty swallowing
- a weak cough reflex
- altered mental status
- certain medical conditions, such as stroke or Parkinson’s disease
There are also a number of things that can be done to reduce the risk of aspiration, including: