Epiglottis

The epiglottis is a leaf-shaped flap of cartilage located behind the tongue, at the top of the larynx, or voice box. The main function of the epiglottis is to seal off the windpipe during eating, so that food is not accidentally inhaled. The epiglottis also helps with some aspects of sound production in certain languages. Swelling of the epiglottis is called epiglottitis. This condition can block airflow to the lungs and is, therefore, potentially life-threatening. Epiglottitis can have many causes, including burns from hot beverages, throat injury, or bacterial infections. Last medically reviewed on February 11, 2015

Epiglottitis is a medical condition that occurs when the epiglottis — the cartilage flap that covers the windpipe — and surrounding structures become inflamed. This causes swelling. Because any swelling of the epiglottis can restrict the airway, epiglottitis is a potentially life threatening condition that requires immediate medical treatment. This article will explain more about epiglottitis, including the signs, symptoms, and treatment of epiglottitis. It will also discuss the infections that can cause epiglottitis and ways to prevent it. • Supraglottis: This includes the epiglottis. • Glottis: This includes the vocal cords. • Subglottis: This is the structure below the glottis. As a Trusted Source PubMed Central Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health This can lead to swelling in the entire upper airway and an airway blockage, which makes it very difficult to breathe. Epiglottitis can even make it so you are unable to breathe. Severe epiglottitis can be fatal. Epiglottitis symptoms in children In children, symptoms tend to arise swiftly, within 12–24 hours. Typical symptoms include: • • stridor from narrowed airway • restlessness • drooling • • muffled or hoarse voice Children with epiglottitis will often try to breathe easier by leaning forward. They may hyperextend the neck in an attempt to keep their airway open. What causes epiglottitis? In children, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) infection is the Trusted Source PubMed Central Highly re...

Overview Epiglottitis happens when the epiglottis — a small cartilage "lid" that covers the windpipe — swells. The swelling blocks the flow of air into the lungs. Epiglottitis can be deadly. Many factors can cause the epiglottis to swell. These factors include infections, burns from hot liquids and injuries to the throat. Epiglottitis can happen at any age. Once, mainly children got it. The most common cause of epiglottitis in children was infection with Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) bacteria. The bacterium also causes pneumonia, meningitis and blood infections. Routine Hib vaccination for infants has made epiglottitis rare in children. It's now more common in adults. The condition needs quick care to prevent deadly complications. Symptoms Symptoms in children Children can develop symptoms of epiglottitis within hours. Symptoms can include: • Fever. • Sore throat. • Unusual, high-pitched sound when breathing in, known as stridor. • Difficult and painful swallowing. • Drooling. • Acting anxious and irritable. • Sitting up or leaning forward to ease breathing. Symptoms in adults Adults might get symptoms over days rather than hours. Symptoms might include: • Sore throat. • Fever. • A muffled or hoarse voice. • Unusual, high-pitched sound when breathing in, known as stridor. • Difficulty breathing. • Difficulty swallowing. • Drooling. When to see a doctor Epiglottitis is a medical emergency. If you or someone you know suddenly has trouble breathing and swallowing, call ...