Epiglottitis

Epiglottitis is an upper airway condition in which the epiglottis, the cartilage flap that closes the windpipe during swallowing, becomes inflamed and can obstruct breathing. Routine childhood vaccination against Haemophilus influenzae type b has made it uncommon, and it once mainly affected young children; adults can also be affected. Bacterial infection is the usual cause, with Haemophilus influenzae type b predominant in children, while adult cases may be due to other bacteria or to viruses. Injury to the throat, smoking and a weakened immune system also raise the likelihood. Typical features are a high fever, sore throat, noisy breathing, drooling, painful swallowing and a hoarse voice, and the airway can become completely blocked. Diagnosis rests on laryngoscopy, with cultures, blood tests and imaging as options. Emergency hospital treatment secures the airway with oxygen, intubation or tracheostomy, and adds antibiotics for infection, corticosteroids and intravenous fluids.

Seek emergency care for severe breathlessness, blue lips, breathing that does not improve with a reliever inhaler, or confusion. See a doctor for a cough lasting more than three weeks, coughing up blood, fever with chest pain, or wheeze that limits daily activity. Call the local emergency number for any symptom that is sudden and severe. This page is a reference for healthcare professionals and does not replace an assessment.