Final answer:
Aspiration pneumonia is more frequent on the right side due to the anatomical differences in the right main bronchus. Pneumonia impairs gas exchange in the alveoli by filling them with fluid. Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most common bacterial cause, with treatment including antibiotics like clarithromycin.
Step-by-step explanation:
Aspiration pneumonia is more common on the right side of the lung primarily due to anatomical and physiological differences. The right main bronchus is more vertical, wider, and shorter than the left main bronchus, making it easier for aspirated material to enter the right lung.
A respiratory infection like pneumonia can affect the exchange of gases by filling the alveoli with inflammatory fluid, reducing the area available for gas exchange, and thus impairing the uptake of oxygen and the release of carbon dioxide.
Conditions like COPD, caused by smoking and other factors, can exacerbate pneumonia and infections due to weakened lung function and reduced defense mechanisms. Clinical management may include antibiotics, such as clarithromycin, and supportive care, particularly in cases where causative agents are bacterial like Streptococcus pneumoniae, the most common causative agent of community-acquired bacterial pneumonia.