aspiration question

[Anakan2]

How does a vet treat a gecko that has aspirated food during a force feeding? (aspiration pneumonia) Antibiotics? I have read many things warning of aspiration pneumonia but never have I read what the treatment would be if it happens.
Thanks,
Jenny

 

[acpart]

I am not a vet, but I'm a speech therapist who treats people with swallowing problems. It is possible to aspirate without getting pneumonia. I would imagine that if a gecko aspirates a lot, it will go into respiratory arrest (because it won't be able to breathe) and die on the spot. Otherwise, if it becomes congested and seems to have trouble breathing then it may have pneumonia and will need to be treated with antibiotics and if nothing happens then it is OK.

Aliza

 

[Anakan2]

Thanks for your answer. I appreciate it.
Jenny