Epiglottitis is a serious inflammation caused by an infection of the epiglottis, which is the valve that prevents fluid from passing from the throat to the lungs.
Epiglottitis usually occurs in children 2 to 7 years old because the immune system is not fully developed, but it can also occur in adults with AIDS, for example.
- Epiglottitis is a rapid disease that can cause airway obstruction.
- Leading to very serious complications.
- Such as respiratory arrest.
- If left untreated.
- Treatment requires hospitalization.
- As oxygen may need to be received through a tube placed in the throat and antibiotics in the vein.
Symptoms of epiglottitis usually include
In the case of acute epiglottitis, the person tends to lean forward, while extending the neck backwards, in an attempt to facilitate breathing.
Causes of epiglottitis can be poorly cured flu, suffocation by an object, respiratory infections such as pneumonia, sore throats, and throat burns.
In adults, the most common causes of epiglottitis are the treatment of cancer with chemotherapy and radiation therapy or by inhalation of drugs.
Transmission of epiglottitis occurs through direct contact with the affected person’s saliva, such as sneezing, coughing, kissing and exchange of cutlery, so infected patients should wear masks and avoid exchanging objects in contact with saliva.
Prevention of epiglottitis can be performed using the Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine, which is the main etiological agent of epiglottitis, and the first dose should be taken at 2 months of age.
When your doctor suspects epiglottitis, make sure the person can breathe immediately.Once stabilized, the person may undergo a throat test, x-ray, throat sample for testing, and blood tests.
Epiglottitis is curable and treatment involves internalizing the individual, receiving oxygen through a tube placed in the throat, and controlling their breathing through their own machines.
In addition, treatment also includes injecting antibiotics, such as ampicillin, amoxicillin or ceftriaxone, into the vein until the infection goes away.After 3 days, the person can usually go home, but should take the medicine indicated orally by the doctor for up to 14 days.