Overinflated lungs push down on the stomach. This is called Gastro-Esophageal Reflux . Once these liquids have reached the mouth, they can be inhaled into the lungs. This is called Aspiration . Aspiration can lead to inflammation of the bronchial tubes and bronchospasm .
Aspiration can also cause lung infection or pneumonia .
For these reasons, it is important to diagnose Gastro-Esophageal Reflux. Gastro-Esophageal Reflux can lead to persistent coughing, wheezing , or difficulty breathing, or apnea spells . Gastro-Esophageal Reflux may be diagnosed using several different tests. Babies may be given Barium or milk containing a tiny amount of radioactive dye. These tests are known as a Barium Swallow and Milk Scan , respectively.