Description:
Epiglottis is a cartilaginous structure that menggtantung at the entrance of the larynx and vocal cords cover. Epiglottis serves as a place to store food from the larynx to the trachea (ie, air ducts bring air to the lungs) When the epiglottis becomes inflamed or infected, the condition is known as epiglottitis.
Epiglottitis is a potentially life-threatening condition because it can impede the flow of air into the lungs.
Factors that can cause swollen epiglottis include burns from hot liquids, direct injury to the throat infection. The most common cause of epiglottitis in children is an infection of Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), the bacteria that also causes pneumonia, meningitis and infections in the bloodstream. Epiglottitis can occur at any age.Routine Hib vaccination for infants to prevent epiglottitis.
Symptoms:
Symptoms in children
In children, signs and symptoms of epiglottitis can develop within hours, symptoms include:
- Fever
- Severe pain in throat
- Difficult and painful swallowing
- Worried
- Feel comfortable when sitting
Symptoms in adults
For adults, signs and symptoms include:
- Severe sore throat
- Muffled or hoarse voice
- Loud, raspy breathing
- Difficulty breathing
Treatment:
Treatment of epiglottitis is intended to help the patient to breathe. After that just treat the infection sufferers. In extreme cases or if such treatment measures fail, doctors may need to create an emergency airway by inserting a needle directly into the area of cartilage in the trachea. This procedure, called a tracheotomy allows air into the lungs through the larynx. If epiglottitis associated with infection, intravenous antibiotics will be given after the patient can breathe freely.