Overview
The epiglottis, a little cartilage “lid” that covers the windpipe, swells and causes epiglottitis. The edema prevents air from entering the lungs. Epiglottitis can occur at any age. Once, kids understood it the most. Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib) bacterial infection most frequent cause of epiglottitis for most youngsters. The bacteria also bring on infections with blood, meningitis, and pneumonia.
In children, epiglottitis is infrequent due to routine Hib immunization. It now affects adults more frequently. In order to avoid fatal consequences, the condition requires immediate attention.
Table of Contents
- What is Epiglottitis?
- Symptoms of Epiglottitis
- Causes of Epiglottitis
- Prevention of Epiglottits in Children
- Conclusion
- Frequently asked questions
What is Epiglottitis?
Acute, sometimes fatal bacterial or viral infections that cause swelling and inflammation of the epiglottis are known as epiglottitis. When swallowing, food cannot pass through the epiglottis, an elastic cartilage structure at the base of the tongue, and into the trachea. This results in respiratory issues, such as stridor, which may get worse with time and eventually clog airways. A medical emergency arises when the edema is enlarged that air cannot enter or exit the lungs.
Symptoms of Epiglottitis
Regardless of the microorganism causing the inflammation, epiglottitis presents with comparable symptoms. The most typical signs and symptoms of epiglottitis are listed below. However, each child may have a unique set of symptoms.
The following symptoms are:
- Viruses of the upper respiratory tract. In certain children, upper respiratory infection symptoms initially manifest as epiglottitis symptoms.
- A sudden, excruciating sore throat and cough
- Fever
- Hoarse voice
- Cyanosis: Bluish skin tone
- Stridor is a loud, high-pitched sound that is typically heard as a child breathes in (expiration), but it can also be heard when they breathe out.
Symptoms such as the following might manifest as the illness gets worse:
The child exhibits symptoms such as:
- Drooling
- Difficulty breathing
- Throat irritation
- Inability to speak
- Leaning forward when sitting
- The child keeps his/her mouth open
Causes of Epiglottitis
An upper respiratory tract-transmitted bacterial infection is the primary cause of epiglottitis in children. Hib bacterium is the cause of most instances.
Epiglottitis is not caused by viruses. However, a bacterial infection may become more common as a result of a viral illness. Children’s injuries from the following may also result in epiglottitis:
- Breathing in fire smoke
- Taking in a strong chemical that causes throat-burning
- Consuming something (a foreign body) that isn’t food
- Rarely, a blow to the neck directly may also result in this illness.
- Children with a weak immune system due to certain medicines or diseases are also more likely to get this condition.
- Airway infection
Prevention of Epiglottitis in Children
A vaccination can stop the Hib-causing bacteria from causing epiglottitis. The child’s risk of contracting the illness will decrease after receiving the vaccination.
It is currently not possible to avoid epiglottitis brought on by other bacteria. However, these are far fewer in number. However, here are the few listed preventive measures for epiglottitis:
- Individuals should avoid those who are sick to prevent the spread of airborne diseases or infection.
- When coughing or sneezing, one should cover their mouth with a tissue or the inside of their elbow.
- Hands should be washed with soap and fresh running water.
- Avoiding injuries to throat
- Experts recommend that babies receive the Hib vaccination three to four times. Depending on the brand of the vaccine used by the doctor, the primary doses are given at 2, 4, and 6 months of age. A booster dose is administered when the child is 12 to 15 months old.
Conclusion
Breathing and swallowing difficulties might be among the many severe symptoms of epiglottitis, or inflammation of the epiglottis. If someone is exhibiting signs of epiglottitis, get help right away by going to the closest emergency facility. When treated promptly and appropriately, epiglottitis typically resolves. Most patients make a full recovery and are discharged from the hospital in less than a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does epiglottitis spread easily?
If a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection is the cause of epiglottitis, it might be contagious through mucus or saliva droplets.
How long does recovery from therapy for epiglottitis take?
The majority of people need around a week to recover completely from epiglottitis. The hospital stay will likely last five to seven days.
Is epiglottitis fatal?
Epiglottitis can occasionally prove lethal. The mortality rate from epiglottitis is less than 1 in 100.
What should I expect if I have epiglottitis?
Epiglottitis is a medical emergency, but with prompt treatment, it is usually successfully managed. Most individuals recover within approximately a week.
