About Epiglottitis
Epiglottitis is the inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis, a flap of tissue located at the base of the tongue. It acts as a valve, preventing food and liquids from entering the windpipe when swallowing. This condition can occur at any age but was historically more common in children. Epiglottitis can be caused by an infection or physical trauma. It is a potentially life-threatening illness as severe swelling of the epiglottis can block the airway, leading to breathing difficulties.
Symptoms may include a very sore throat, high-pitched sound when breathing, fever, restlessness, and drooling. Immediate medical attention is necessary if epiglottitis is suspected. Treatment typically involves antibiotics and supportive measures to help with breathing.
The causes of epiglottitis include:
- Bacterial infections: The most common cause is a bacterial infection, with Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) being the most common bacteria. Other bacterial such as Streptococcus A, B, or C and Streptococcus pneumoniae can also cause epiglottitis.
- Viral infections: Certain viruses, including those that cause respiratory infections, shingles, and chickenpox can contribute to the inflammation of the epiglottis.
- Fungal infections
- Inhaling chemicals or burns: Inhaling chemicals or experiencing burns in the throat from steam or other heat sources can lead to inflammation of the epiglottis.
- Trauma: Throat injuries from trauma, such as stabbing or gunshot wounds, can also cause epiglottitis.
Risk factors for epiglottitis include:
- Weak immune system: Having a weakened immune system makes it more difficult for the body to fight off infections and increases the risk of developing epiglottitis.
- Not being fully vaccinated: Vaccinations are available for some infection causes of epiglottitis. Not being vaccinated may increase the risk of getting an infection that can cause epiglottitis.
- Smoking crack cocaine: Inhaling crack cocaine smoke can come into contact with the epiglottis and surrounding tissues, leading to inflammation.
These risk factors do not always lead to epiglottitis. Epiglottitis may occur in people without any known risk factors. Risk factors and ways to reduce the chances of getting epiglottitis should be discussed with a healthcare professional for individualized advice.
Symptoms of epiglottitis may appear suddenly and quickly get worse, especially in younger children. The most common early symptoms of epiglottitis include:
- High fever
- Sore throat
- Hoarse voice
- Difficulty swallowing
- Painful swallowing
- Restlessness
- Breathing through the mouth
- High-pitched noises when breathing
As the condition progresses or reaches a higher severity, other symptoms may occur:
- Difficulty breathing
- Raspy or muffled voice
- Harsh, noisy breathing
- Severe sore throat
- Inability to catch breath
- Difficulty swallowing saliva (this may lead to drooling)
- Bluish skin due to a lack of oxygen.
If you think your child may have epiglottitis, try to keep them as calm as possible. Crying can make the swelling worse.
Not all symptoms may occur in people with epiglottitis, and other conditions may cause similar symptoms. It's important to note that epiglottitis is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. If you suspect you or someone else has epiglottitis, call 911 and seek medical help right away.
To diagnose epiglottitis, doctors commonly perform the following examinations, tests, and procedures:
- Medical history: Doctors will ask about your symptoms and any previous medical conditions that may be relevant.
- Physical examination: Doctors will examine the throat and look for signs of inflammation and infection.
- Imaging tests: X-rays or CT scans of the throat and chest can help determine the severity of inflammation and infection.
- Throat and blood cultures: These tests can identify the cause of infection, such as bacteria or a virus.
It's important to note that these examinations, tests, and procedures should be performed by healthcare professionals in a clinical setting. Always consult with your doctor for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
The goals of treatment for epiglottitis are to cure the improve symptoms, cure infection if present, and decrease the chances of potential complications such as respiratory failure or spread of infection to the blood (sepsis). Treatment may include:
- Breathing support: If oxygen levels are low, supplemental oxygen may be provided through a breathing tube or mask.
- Tracheostomy or cricothyroidotomy: In severe cases where the airway is very swollen, a surgical procedure may be performed to insert a tube for breathing that bypassing the epiglottis.
- Antibiotics: For epiglottitis caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics are a mainstay of treatment. They work by targeting and eliminating the bacteria causing the infection.
- Anti-inflammatory medications, such as corticosteroids, may be prescribed to reduce the swelling in the throat. By reducing inflammation, these medications help alleviate symptoms like difficulty breathing and swallowing.
- Intravenous fluids: These are given for nutrition and hydration until the person is able to swallow again.
- Prevention of transmission to others: Epiglottitis is primarily caused by bacterial infections, which can be contagious. Prompt initiation of antibiotics helps prevent the spread of infection to others.
It's important to note that treatment for epiglottitis, a potentially life-threatening condition, should under medical supervision. Treatment should be individualized based on the severity of the condition and individual factors. Medication dosing may be affected by many factors, so it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for individualized guidance. Treatment side effects can occur, so it's important to discuss any concerns with your healthcare professional or refer to the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.