Asparational pneumonia, what is it and what causes it?

Aspiration pneumonia: Most pneumonias are caused by aspiration of organisms from above. The term generally applies to situations when bacteria, usually from bad gums or other areas, are aspirated into the lungs where they can cause a slowly progressive necrotizing polymicrobial pneumonia that usually contains anaerobic bacteria. Seen in alcoholics, people with severe dental issues, etc.

Aspiration Pneumonia: This is caused by stomach contents leaking up one's esophagus and going into your trachea (wind pipe) and going into the lungs. The stomach contents can damage the lungs and bacteria in the stomach contents can cause an infection in the lung. Strokes, alcohol , some drugs, several diseases can make this more likely.

Aspiration pneumonia: This occurs when some one has got the stomach contents going into the lungs. Happens in unconscious patients , stroke patients or anaesthetised patients who cannot protect their airways. The stomach contents are acidic and invoke a strong inflammatory reaction . Also some bacteria may be saved from the aspirated vomitus to make things worse.