Epiglottitis Epiglottis Throat Infection Causes Difficulty Swallowing, Severe Sore Throat Symptoms

Epiglottitis is a very rapid developing infection that causes inflammation of your epiglottis. And it’s a potentially fatal condition.

Your epiglottis is a cartilage that covers the windpipe when you swallow. It keeps food from “going down the wrong pipe”.

Epiglottitis usually starts with symptoms of a high fever, swallowing difficulty and severe sore throat. Some experience infectious disease symptoms similar to an upper respiratory infection.

Other epiglottis throat infection symptoms may include:

Epiglottitis can progressively worsen very quickly. Ultimately, this throat infection may precipitate a swollen epiglottis that completely blocks your airway. And becomes a health emergency in no time.

The most common cause of difficulty swallowing and severe sore throat epiglottitis symptoms is a Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) infection. It’s a contagious bacteria that can also cause pneumonia and meningitis, but not influenza.

Epiglottitis was once a major health concern for young children.  But because of routine Hib vaccinations given to infants it’s less of a health worry. However, be aware that Hib is not the only cause of epiglottis throat infection or inflammation.

Some other germs that can infect your epiglottis or situations that cause it to swell are:

If you suspect epiglottitis, then seek emergency health treatment.

Epiglottitis’ severe sore throat commonly strikes those 2-6 years old. It can happen in older individuals, albeit rarely, particularly those with a weakened immune system.

Epiglottitis difficulty swallowing and breathing can lead to respiratory failure, pulmonary edema or cause a serious infection somewhere else.

Initial treatment for epiglottis throat infection may require intubation or a tracheotomy. Antibiotics will likely be administered after your breathing difficulty is resolved. And corticosteroids may be prescribed to decrease throat swelling.

« »