Vomit Aspiration

When the stomach contents pass into the airways, we call it vomit aspiration. It occurs when what is regurgitated or vomited is inhaled into the trachea and lungs instead of leaving through the mouth.

Why it is delicate: the aspirated material can irritate or block the airways and promote complications in the lung.

Higher-risk situations: decreased level of alertness, difficulty swallowing, or vomiting episodes in people who cannot properly protect their airway.

Which specialist is involved? This is a situation usually assessed by the emergency physician, since it requires immediate attention. If a person has sudden coughing, choking, or difficulty breathing after vomiting, the right thing to do is to seek emergency medical help immediately.