Why are people with SCI at higher risk for respiratory infections?

Author: Sharon Jang | Reviewers: Phillip Popovich , Katherine Mifflin | Published: 2 September 2020 | Updated: 10 January 2025

Respiratory infections can occur in anyone, but people with SCI are at a higher risk for the following reasons:

Weakened immune system: After SCI, individuals may have a weakened immune system, some researchers believe that this may make them more prone to infections.

Illustration accompanying Why are people with SCI at higher risk for respiratory infections?

Reduced/absent respiratory functioning: As people with SCI may have an inability/weakened ability to cough, mucus begins to build up in the airways and the lung. This accumulation of mucus creates a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses.

Inhaling your food, drinks, or saliva (aspiration) is common after SCI. This results in these substances collecting in your lung, which may result in pneumonia.

Use of mechanical respiratory devices: The use of mechanical ventilation can cause ventilator-assisted pneumonia, especially in hospital environments. If parts of the ventilation system (e.g., tubing) are not cleaned properly, bacteria can grow