Epiglottitis
Overview
Causes
Epiglottitis can be caused by:
- Bacteria, viruses, and fungi
- Burns from hot liquids
- Injury to the throat area
- Crack cocaine use
Risk Factors
Epiglottitis spreads easily. It is passed like the common cold, through droplets from sneezing and coughing. It is more common in infants under 12 months and adults over 85 years old. However, anyone can develop epiglottitis.
Other things that raise the risk are:
- Not having the Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine
- A weak immune system
- Chronic diseases, such as high blood pressure and COPD
- Living in close quarters
SymptomsandDiagnosis
Symptoms
Symptoms appear suddenly and worsen quickly. They may be:
- Fever over 103 °F (degrees Fahrenheit) / (38.9 °C)
- Severe sore throat
- Problems swallowing and drooling
- Problems breathing
- Cough
- Being irritable
- Voice changes
- Squeaky or raspy sounds while inhaling
Diagnosis
At the hospital, breathing will be checked. The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A mirror may be used to look down the throat.
To look for infection or other problems, tests may be done, such as:
- Blood culture and count
- Throat culture
Images may be taken to look for problems in the nose, neck, and throat area. This can be done with:
- Laryngoscopy
- Neck x-ray
- Ultrasound
Treatments
Treatment
The first goal of treatment is to make sure the airway is open. If the person cannot breathe, emergency care is given, such as:
- Endotracheal intubation—a breathing tube is put through the nose or mouth to the airway
- Tracheotomy—a breathing tube is inserted directly into the airway, if the airway is swollen shut
The cause of epiglottitis also needs to be treated. Options are:
- IV antibiotics—to treat infection
- IV corticosteroids—to reduce swelling
Supportive treatments may also be given, such as oxygen and IV fluids.
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
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